Primary Central Nervous System Malignant Melanoma in Children: A Case Series and Review of the Literature

J Pediatr Hematol Oncol. 2018 Nov;40(8):616-619. doi: 10.1097/MPH.0000000000001092.

Abstract

We describe 2 cases of rapidly progressive primary central nervous system malignant melanoma, and summarize 18 previously reported cases of this extremely rare tumor in children. Both patients presented with focal neurologic symptoms, with no evidence of skin or other organ system involvement. One patient was treated with temozolomide and etoposide, whereas the other was treated with multiple surgical resections, radiation therapy, and a trial of ipilimumab. New molecularly targeted and immune-based therapies used in metastatic melanoma in adults are potential new treatment options, but their efficacy and safety in pediatric patients needs to be established.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / administration & dosage*
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms* / metabolism
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Chemoradiotherapy*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Etoposide / administration & dosage
  • Humans
  • Ipilimumab / administration & dosage
  • Male
  • Melanoma* / metabolism
  • Melanoma* / pathology
  • Melanoma* / therapy
  • Temozolomide / administration & dosage

Substances

  • Ipilimumab
  • Etoposide
  • Temozolomide