[Melanoma of the nasal septum]

Abstract

Sinonasal mucosal melanoma is a rare neoplasm, accounting for less than 1% of all melanomas. It is more aggressive than its cutaneous counterpart, with a very poor prognosis. We report a case of melanoma arising from mucosae of the nasal septum in a 73-year-old man. Clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment are described and a review of literature is made. Nasal location and relatively nonspecific symptoms frequently delay diagnosis. Optimal treatment guidelines are not established because of its rare occurrence.