Myelopathy from Intradural Extramedullary Metastasis as an Initial Presentation of Metastatic Melanoma

Abstract

The incidence of metastatic melanoma (MM) has been steadily rising, and it is the third most common metastatic lesion to the central nervous system (CNS). Spinal intradural extramedullary (IDEM) MM is rare, and it is associated with coexisting or antecedent brain metastasis. Metastatic disease to the CNS is a complication of advanced disease, and it generally occurs months to years after initial diagnosis and treatment. We describe the first case of an initial presentation of MM, presenting as cervical myelopathy secondary to spinal cord compression from IDEM spinal metastasis. Further work-up revealed additional lesions in the temporal lobe and cauda equina region as well as a scalp lesion that was presumed to be the primary site. MM should be considered in the differential of myelopathy secondary to a spinal intradural mass, particularly in those with a history of or risk factors for melanoma.