Endoscopic Nd:YAG laser and radiation therapy for primary malignant melanoma of the esophagus

Primary malignant melanoma of the esophagus is rare. Reports on approximately 112 cases have appeared in the world literature. We report the 113th case in the eldest known patient at the time of diagnosis. Endoscopic neodymium-yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser coagulation, in conjunction with radiation therapy, was performed. This nonsurgical treatment combination appears to provide adequate palliative therapy for primary malignant melanoma of the esophagus.