Surgical treatment of primary melanoma of the umbilicus with sentinel lymph node biopsy and plastic reconstruction: Case report and review of the literature

Aims, patients and methods

The umbilical melanoma is rare, and the surgical treatment can create difficulties for both radical excision and plastic reconstruction. Our aims are to present a case of primary melanoma of the umbilicus and to discuss the best surgical treatment, as well as review the relevant literature.

Results

Surgical excision of primary melanoma of the umbilicus must be carried out to reach the peritoneum. Sentinel lymph node biopsy must be carried as well as plastic reconstruction.

Conclusion

Despite the progress in new medical therapy for melanoma, suitable surgical excision is, at present, the only treatment able to improve patient prognosis. In this report we describe the surgical treatment and plastic reconstruction of a case of umbilical melanoma.