# Amelanotic Melanoma Invading the Heart

## TL;DR

A rare case of amelanotic melanoma invading the heart is presented, highlighting the challenges in diagnosis and treatment of this aggressive disease.

## Contribution

This case report contributes to the understanding and management of cardiac melanoma through clinical experience and insights.

## Key findings

- A middle-aged woman was diagnosed with amelanotic melanoma invading the right atrium of the heart.
- Despite surgery and chemotherapy, the patient passed away due to sudden cardiac arrest.
- The case emphasizes the poor prognosis and diagnostic challenges of cardiac melanoma.

## Abstract

We present a case of a middle-aged woman who initially presented with shortness of breath but was ultimately found to have a large mass-like lesion in the right atrium of the heart with multi-modality imaging including cardiac computed tomography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, and echocardiogram. Biopsy results were positive for amelanotic melanoma. The patient underwent extensive debridement surgery, and she was started on chemotherapy with a close follow-up with an oncologist. In the setting of an aggressive course of disease, unfortunately, the patient passed away secondary to sudden cardiac arrest.

Cardiac melanoma, also known as melanoma of the heart, is an extremely rare type of melanoma that originates in the heart. This case attributes to the professional growth and competency of healthcare providers involved in the care of patients with cardiac melanoma, ultimately aiming to optimize patient outcomes and quality of life. Due to its rarity and the challenges associated with its diagnosis and treatment, prognosis for cardiac melanoma is generally poor. However, advancement in cancer research and treatment may offer hope for improved outcomes in some cases.