Primary malignant melanoma in an ovarian mature cystic teratoma

Background: Germ cell tumours are a common form of ovarian neoplasm; the most common of which is mature cystic teratoma. However, transformation into malignantmelanoma is rare. Here, we present a case of a primary malignant melanoma in an ovarian mature cystic teratoma with literature review. Case presentation: A 63-year-old woman presented at our hospital with abdominal distension and pain. Physical examination showed a mobile, non-tender, abdominopelvic mass. Radiological examination revealed a cystic mass with mixed echogenicity. Histopathological review disclosed a primary malignant melanoma arising in an ovarian mature cystic teratoma. The patient died 28 months after the initial diagnosis. Conclusion:Although it is rare for ovarian neoplasms to transform into malignant melanoma in a mature cystic teratoma, it can happen and physicians should be aware of this exceptional kind of malignancy.

Keywords:

Mature cystic teratoma , Malignant melanoma and ovary