Primary Chondro-osseous melanoma (Chondrosarcomatous & Osteosarcomatous Melanoma)

Abstract

Melanoma can rarely show malignant chondro-osseous differentiation and can cause diagnostic confusion. We report three cases of primary melanoma with extensive bone and cartilage matrix. The first case arose in the nasal mucosa of a 72-year old woman, the second case in the left index finger of a 26-year old woman and the third case in the left cheek of a 68-year old woman. In tumors where osseous and chondroid differentiation appear in mucosa and skin, primary melanoma with chondro-osteosarcomatous differentiation should be considered in the differential. Careful histological examination together with clinical correlation and ancillary immunohistochemical studies can ensure the correct diagnosis is made.