Malignant Melanoma Presenting as Bilateral Pleural Effusion

Abstract

Abstract:Malignant melanoma is a common malignancy in Western population especially in light skinned people although it is relatively uncommon in India. Pleural effusion is an unusual presentation of malignant melanoma. We present the case of a 45 year old patient who presented with chest pain and dyspnea. Computed tomography scan of chest revealed bilateral pleural effusion. Cytological examination of pleural fluid was found to contain malignant epithelial cells. Fine needle aspiration cytology of ulcero-proliferative lesion in left sole was suggestive of malignant melanoma. The patient was treated with chemical pleurodesis but he succumbed to progressive disease after six months.