[Melanocytic neoplasms of central nervous system analysis]

Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi. 2013 Jan 1;93(1):34-6.
[Article in Chinese]

Abstract

Objective: To explore the clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment and prognostic features of melanocytic neoplasms of central nervous system (CNS).

Methods: A total of 24 patients with melanocytic neoplasms of CNS underwent surgery and were confirmed pathologically our hospital during 2006 - 2012. Their clinical data were collected. There were primitive melanocytic neoplasms (n = 8) and metastatic melanoma (n = 16) according to the diagnostic criteria of Willis. The scans of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed hyper-intensity on T1 weighted image (n = 15) and hypo-intensity on T2 weighted image (n = 20).

Results: The outcomes were total resection (n = 11), subtotal resection (n = 9) and partial resection (n = 4). All 8 primitive melanocytic neoplasms were followed up. Among them, 2 cases died postoperatively at 15 and 40 months respectively. The remaining 6 cases survived 13 - 56 months after craniotomy. And 14/16 patients of metastatic melanoma were followed up, 8 cases died and the mean survival period was 4.5 months. The remaining 6 cases survived 1-7 months after craniotomy. Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated that the positive rate of HMB-45 was 9/10, S-100 9/11 and Vimentin 8/11.

Conclusion: Melanocytic neoplasms of CNS are rare lesions with characteristic MRI features. Immunohistochemical staining helps to reach a definite pathological diagnosis. Surgical excision is recommended. Differentiation of primary and metastatic neoplasm is critical for prognostic evaluations.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Melanoma* / diagnosis
  • Melanoma* / pathology
  • Middle Aged
  • Prognosis
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Survival Rate
  • Young Adult