An unusual presentation of recurring metastatic melanoma

Abstract

A 53-year-old non-distressed Caucasian female complains of dyspnea and palpitations for 5 days. Past medical history includes Stage IV melanoma with adequate resection 23 years prior. The patient suddenly became increasingly tachycardic in mild respiratory distress while maintaining hemodynamic stability. TTE depicted 10.5 × 7.5 × 9.5 cm3 mass within her left ventricle and a large volume of pericardial effusion, which progressed to cardiac tamponade. Pericardial window was performed. Metastatic involvement should be ruled out for all symptomatic patients with a history of melanoma.