Tracheal metastasis from primary oral malignant melanoma: A case report.

RATIONALE: Oral malignant melanoma (OMM) is a rare but highly aggressive malignancy that frequently metastasizes to the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, brain, and bones; however, tracheal metastasis is uncommon. Such cases are rarely reported.

PATIENT CONCERNS: A 58-year-old man with a history of primary oral melanoma treated with surgery followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy 2 years prior presented with respiratory symptoms. Chest computed tomography and bronchoscopy revealed a pigmented neoplasm obstructing the main trachea of the patient. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses of the neoplasm confirmed the presence of metastatic melanoma.

DIAGNOSES: Tracheal metastasis of OMM.

INTERVENTIONS: Complete resection of the lesion within the tracheal lumen was achieved using high-frequency electrocautery snare resection via bronchoscopy.

OUTCOMES: The patient's airway was reestablished, and the symptoms of respiratory distress were alleviated.

LESSONS: Clinicians should be alert to the possibility of tracheal metastasis in patients with OMM presenting with nonspecific respiratory manifestations.