Multiple Cutaneous Melanoma Metastases of an Extremity Resembling Kaposi's Sarcoma: Use of Regional Perfusion

Abstract

We report on a patient with primary cutaneous malignant melanoma, with numerous intransit metastases involving the left lower extremity. The clinical presentation was striking in that the intransit metastatic lesions of the skin had morphologic characteristics of Kaposi's sarcoma. Her disease was complicated by marked lower limb edema. Cutaneous ulceration did not develop despite the extensive tumor burden. Treatment with regional limb perfusion resulted in marked reduction of the edema and shrinkage of the tumor mass. In addition to presenting this case report and response to therapy, we would like to suggest the term "chronic melanoma of the extremity" (CME) as a descriptive term for this unusual variant of malignant melanoma.

Hidden acral lentiginous melanoma with cutaneous metastases masquerading as Kaposi's sarcoma in an HIV-positive Indian man

“…Additionally, the bluish and violaceous-red lesions on our patient's leg closely resembled the lesions of Kaposi's sarcoma. We could find only a few reports of cutaneous melanoma metastases resembling Kaposi's sarcoma in the literature 4 5. Although Kaposi's sarcoma is quite rare in the Indian population,6 our patient's positive HIV status, apart from the clinical manifestations, made us favour this diagnosis.…”

Giant Centrifugal and Necrotizing Cutaneous Metastases of Melanoma

“…8 On the lower extremities, telangiectatic or purpuric metastatic patches mimic vasculitis and in some cases can mimic the morphological characteristics of Kaposi's sarcoma. 3,9,10 Metastases localized to the scalp may result in hairless areas, suggesting alopecia areata. The zosteriform metastatic pattern presenting as tender or pruritic vesicles confined to a single unilateral dermatome, with an erythematous background resembling herpes zoster, is rare.…”