Metastatic malignant melanoma to the bladder: A case series

Background: Metastatic melanoma to the bladder is rarely reported, and the role of surgery is still largely unknown. We review 4 such cases and highlight their management and outcomes. We also review the relevant literature. Methods: The Mayo Clinic tumor database was searched and 4 such cases were found. Results: All 4 patients were treated locally with transurethral resection. The only patient who had a solitary metastasis did relatively well, having no evidence of disease 10 months after his presentation, while the other 3 died within 6 months. The literature highlights various approaches to management, but there is no definitive evidence that radical cystectomy offers any benefit over transurethral resection. Conclusion: Resection may improve survival in the setting of a solitary metastasis, but there is no evidence that radical cystectomy offers any benefit over local resection. With diffuse disease, however, resection is likely only beneficial for treatment of hematuria.