Sinonasal mucosal melanoma: A 12-year experience of 58 cases

Primary Sinonasal Mucosal Melanoma: A Narrative Review

Mucosal melanomas (MMs) are under-researched tumors with a poor prognosis that arise from melanocytes found in the mucous membranes at different anatomical locations throughout the body. MMs are an uncommon yet highly aggressive tumor that typically develops on mucosal surfaces, predominantly in the head and neck region. MM of the head and neck occurs in 8-10% of all head and neck melanomas. It most commonly affects the mucosa of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses (75%), followed by the oral cavity mucosa (25%). A family history and the presence of mucosal nevi are associated with the occurrence of MM. Inhaled and dietary carcinogens are also linked to the development of sinonasal melanoma, much like other malignancies of the nasal cavity. Overexpression of the C-KIT gene is found in more than 80% of all primary mucosal melanomas, with somatic mutations in 10-30% of cases. The presence of these genetic alterations is also reflected in recent clinical studies of specific gene inhibitors that have proven efficiency in the systemic therapy of melanoma. There are various treatment modalities for MM. Surgical therapy involves en bloc surgical resection with a macroscopically visible and palpable mucosal margin of 1.5-2 cm. Partial resection of the maxilla may be considered if it ensures adequate tumor-free margine. Because of its rarity, outcome data for locally advanced head and neck MM is limited and primarily derived from retrospective studies with small case numbers. This review aims to update and summarize findings from clinical trials, prospective observational studies, and retrospective studies, while also exploring future directions for multimodal treatment approaches in this area.

Morbidity of multimodal treatments including endoscopic surgery for sinonasal malignancies: Results of an international collaborative study on 940 patients (MUSES)

INTRODUCTION

In the management of sinonasal malignancies treatment-induced morbidity and mortality is gaining relevance both for surgical approaches (endoscopic and open resection) and non-surgical therapies. The aim of this multicenter study is to assess complications associated with endoscopic surgery and non-surgical treatments (neoadjuvant and/or adjuvant) for malignant sinonasal tumors.

METHODS

All patients with nasoethmoidal malignancies treated with curative intent with endoscopic or endoscopic-assisted surgery at three referral centers with uniform management policies were included. Neo- and/or adjuvant (chemo)radiotherapy was administered according to histology and pathological report. Demographics, treatment characteristics, and complications related both to the surgical and non-surgical approaches were retrieved. The data were analyzed with univariate and multivariate statistics to assess independent predictors of complications.

RESULTS

Nine hundred and forty patients were included, 643 males (68%) and 297 females (32%). A total of 225 complications were identified in 187 patients (19.9%): cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak (3.5%), mucocele (2.3%), surgical site bleeding (2.0%), epiphora (2.0%), and radionecrosis (2.0%) were the most common. Treatment-related mortality was 0.4%. Variables independently associated with complications at multivariate analysis were principally dural resection (OR 1.92), cranioendoscopic or multiportal resection (OR 2.93), dural repair with multilayer technique with less than three layers (OR 2.17), and graft different from iliotibial tract (OR 3.29).

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that modern endoscopic treatments and radiotherapy for sinonasal malignancies are associated with limited morbidity and treatment-related mortality. CSF leak and radionecrosis, although rare, remain the most frequent complications and should be further addressed by future research efforts.

Survival Outcomes in Sinonasal Mucosal Melanoma: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background/Objectives: Sinonasal mucosal melanomas (SNMMs) are rare and aggressive malignancies with poor survival outcomes. Our systematic review and meta-analysis aim to evaluate overall survival (OS) rates in patients with SNMM; Methods: We conducted a systematic search, following PRISMA guidelines across PubMed, Web of Science (WOS), and citation searching for studies reporting survival and prognosis outcomes for SNMMs. Inclusion criteria included studies with 5-year OS rates. Studies were excluded if they included tumor sites other than the paranasal sinuses or nasal cavity, were published in languages other than English and Spanish, or had a sample size of fewer than 15 patients. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed study quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklist. Analyses of survival probabilities were conducted. Meta-analyses were performed using a random-effects model. PROSPERO ID CRD42024565137; Results: A total of 515 articles were identified after removing duplicates, and 99 reports were assessed for eligibility. Of these, 35 studies were included in the meta-analysis, encompassing a total of 2383 SNMM patients, of whom 1192 (50%) were female, with a weighted mean age of 65.4 years (SD = 5.4). Fifteen studies were from Europe (42.9%), six (17.1%) were from America, eleven (31.4%) were from Asia, two (5.7%) were from Australia, and one (2.9%) combined European, United Kingdom, and American populations. The 5-year OS was 34.8 [95% CI = 30.6-39.5], with the highest OS in America at 40.5 [95% CI = 34.1-48.1], followed by Europe at 36.6 [95% CI = 30.6-43.7], Australia at 32.3 [95% CI = 12.5-83.8], and Asia at 28.1 [95% CI = 19.5-40.7]. The age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) for SNMM ranges was between 0.07 and 0.14 per 100,000 persons/year, with a slightly higher incidence in women than in men; Conclusions: This meta-analysis, one of the largest to date on SNMM, confirms the aggressive nature of this melanoma subtype with poor survival outcomes. Despite geographic differences in survival rates, the overall 5-year survival remains low, highlighting the urgent need for improved treatment strategies and more research to improve patient outcomes.

Clinical target volume design and dose in carbon-ion radiation therapy for sinonasal mucosal melanoma

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

No guidelines exist for the clinical target volume (CTV) and radiotherapy dose in sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM). Thus, we aimed to determine the carbon-ion radiotherapy (CIRT) CTV and dose for SNMM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In total, 135 patients with SNMM who received CIRT were reviewed. The relative biological effectiveness-weighted dose was 57.6 or 64 Gy in 16 fractions. CTV was classified into small CTV, which included the gross tumor and visible melanosis with a certain margin, and extended CTV, which included the tumor site and adjacent anatomical structures. Local recurrence (LR) patterns were pattern I, II, and III, defined as recurrence over the gross tumor, visible melanosis and subclinical area, which would be covered if extended CTV was applied, and outside the extended CTV, respectively.

RESULTS

The 5-year LR rate was 35.3 %. The prescribed dose was not a significant risk factor for pattern I LR; however, 57.6 Gy for a large tumor was insufficient for local control. Using an extended CTV was significantly associated with a lower risk of pattern II LR, and these recurrences did not occur in regions that received > 40 Gy. The 5-year pattern III LR rate was 6.4 %.

CONCLUSION

Utilizing an extended CTV in CIRT for SNMM is appropriate even for small tumors. Using a smaller CTV after an extended CTV of at least 40 Gy is recommended to reduce adverse events. Although the optimal dose for gross tumors remains unclear, the latest technology with 64 Gy showed good outcomes.

Targeted next-generation sequencing of Japanese patients with sinonasal mucosal melanomas identifies frequent NRAS and CTNNB1 mutations

OBJECTIVE

Mucosal melanoma is a rare malignancy; however, the reported incidence rate of mucosal melanoma is higher in Asians than in Caucasians. Sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) is an aggressive malignancy with a poor prognosis due to distant metastasis. Systemic therapy with BRAF inhibitor and MEK inhibitor is one of the standards of care for cutaneous melanoma patients with BRAF V600 mutations. However, no molecular targeted therapy for patients with mucosal melanoma has been established. Relatively few studies have described the genetic mutations associated with mucosal melanoma because of its low frequency. Furthermore, to the best of our knowledge, the genetic mutations among Japanese patients have not been reported. Therefore, in the current study, we evaluated the genetic and clinicopathological characteristics of patients with SNMM.

METHODS

A total of 18 tissue samples obtained from patients with SNMM were analyzed for genetic mutations based on targeted next-generation sequencing to investigate the driver of tumorigenesis and/or candidate genes for predicting clinical outcomes in SNMM. We also performed immunohistochemistry for patients identified with CTNNB1 mutations.

RESULTS

Eight of the 18 (44 %) patients had genetic mutations. The most frequent mutation was NRAS (6/18, 33 %), followed by CTNNB1 (2/18, 11 %) and BRAF (1/18, 5.6 %). One patient had both NRAS and CTNNB1 mutations. Clinical outcomes did not differ significantly between those with and without genetic mutations. NRAS mutations were associated with relatively higher T classification and worse survival rates, although the differences were not significant. The nuclear translocation of β-catenin was detected in both tumors with CTNNB1 mutations. The amino acid change in the BRAF mutation was K601R in exon 15. In the current study, no BRAF V600 mutations were detected.

CONCLUSION

Genetic mutations were not significantly associated with clinical outcomes. However, NRAS mutations may be a prognostic predictor and CTNNB1 mutation may be a treatment effector for immune check inhibitors. A larger prospective study is required to clarify the clinical importance of genetic mutations in patients with SNMM.

International Consensus Statement on Allergy and Rhinology: Sinonasal Tumors

BACKGROUND

Sinonasal neoplasms, whether benign and malignant, pose a significant challenge to clinicians and represent a model area for multidisciplinary collaboration in order to optimize patient care. The International Consensus Statement on Allergy and Rhinology: Sinonasal Tumors (ICSNT) aims to summarize the best available evidence and presents 48 thematic and histopathology-based topics spanning the field.

METHODS

In accordance with prior International Consensus Statement on Allergy and Rhinology documents, ICSNT assigned each topic as an Evidence-Based Review with Recommendations, Evidence-Based Review, and Literature Review based on the level of evidence. An international group of multidisciplinary author teams were assembled for the topic reviews using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses format, and completed sections underwent a thorough and iterative consensus-building process. The final document underwent rigorous synthesis and review prior to publication.

RESULTS

The ICSNT document consists of four major sections: general principles, benign neoplasms and lesions, malignant neoplasms, and quality of life and surveillance. It covers 48 conceptual and/or histopathology-based topics relevant to sinonasal neoplasms and masses. Topics with a high level of evidence provided specific recommendations, while other areas summarized the current state of evidence. A final section highlights research opportunities and future directions, contributing to advancing knowledge and community intervention.

CONCLUSION

As an embodiment of the multidisciplinary and collaborative model of care in sinonasal neoplasms and masses, ICSNT was designed as a comprehensive, international, and multidisciplinary collaborative endeavor. Its primary objective is to summarize the existing evidence in the field of sinonasal neoplasms and masses.

Recurrence patterns among patients with sinonasal mucosal melanoma: A multi-institutional study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate recurrence patterns and survival after recurrence among patients with sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM).

METHODS

This was a multi-institutional retrospective review from seven U.S. institutions of patients with SNMM from 1991 to 2022. Recurrence was categorized as local, regional, distant, or multifocal. Kaplan-Meier tests were used to evaluate disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and post-recurrence survival (PRS) reported with standard errors (SE) and log-rank testing used for comparison. Cox-regression was further used, with hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) reported.

RESULTS

Among 196 patients with SNMM, there were 146 patients with recurrence (74.5%). Among all patients, 60-month DFS (SE) was 15.5% (2.9%), 60-month OS (SE) was 44.7% (3.7%), mean age ± standard deviation at diagnosis was 69.7 ± 12.5 years, and 54.6% were female. In 26 patients who underwent primary treatment of the neck, 60-month DFS did not differ from no treatment (p > 0.05). Isolated distant recurrence was most common (42.8%), followed by local (28.3%), multifocal (20.7%), and regional recurrence (8.3%). Among patients with regional recurrence in the neck, there was no 60-month PRS benefit for patients undergoing salvage neck dissection or radiation (p > 0.05). Among patients with distant recurrence, only immunotherapy was associated with improved 12-month PRS (HR = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.11-0.92, p = 0.034), and no treatment group was associated with improved 24- or 60-month PRS (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

SNMM is associated with a high recurrence rate and poor survival. Primary treatment of the neck was not associated with reduced recurrence, and immunotherapy for treatment of distant recurrence was associated with increased 12-month PRS.

Sinonasal mucosal melanoma treatment response assessment to immune checkpoint inhibitors using hybrid positron emission tomography imaging

The purpose of this retrospective study was to investigate response of sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SMM) patients to treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), using hybrid PET imaging. Fifteen SMM patients underwent hybrid PET imaging before and three months after initiation of ICI. The disease-specific survival (DSS) was calculated. Quantitative PET parameters of the primary tumor and their association with DSS and therapy response were investigated. Nine of the fifteen (60%) patients responded to ICI therapy. Patients with therapy response depicted on hybrid PET imaging had better DSS than those without (p = 0.0058). Quantitative PET parameters of the initial PET harbored no association with DSS or therapy response. However, these findings lack of sufficient statistical power and must be interpreted with caution. The first restaging PET-imaging after ICI initiation can help stratify patients with regard to DSS.

Multimodal treatment and immune checkpoint inhibition in sinonasal mucosal melanoma: real-world data of a retrospective, single-center study

PURPOSE

Local failure and distant metastases occur frequently in sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM). Response rates to chemotherapy are low and targetable mutations are rarely detected. However, there is increasing data indicating efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI). The aim of this retrospective monocenter study was to assess the mutational landscape and to evaluate the outcome of surgical treatment and ICI in SNMM in a real-world setting.

METHODS

Thirty-eight SNMM patients being treated between 1999 and 2020 at our institution were retrospectively reviewed. Survival curves were generated according to Kaplan-Meier and compared by the log-rank test.

RESULTS

Local failure was seen in 60% of patients treated in a curative intent. Overall, 24% of all patients suffered from regional and 66% from distant metastases. Next generation sequencing revealed mutations of BRAF, NRAS and KRAS. One out of three patients treated with a primary ICI showed a complete response (CR) and two showed progressive disease. Eleven patients received ICI as a palliative treatment. CR could be observed in three patients and stable disease in one patient. In the whole study population, the 5-year overall survival rate (OS) was 26%. OS was better for patients who received ICI during the course of disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Recurrences and distant metastases are frequent in SNMM. Durable CR could be observed after primary and palliative ICI. Therefore, ICI in a palliative, adjuvant or even neoadjuvant setting might play a promising role in SNMM therapy while targetable mutations are rarely detected.

Treatment outcomes of the patient with sinonasal mucosal melanoma: the role of endoscopic resection and postoperative radiotherapy

BACKGROUND

The standard of care for sinonasal mucosal melanoma is surgery and postoperative radiotherapy (PORT). Our treatment strategy comprises endoscopic resection and PORT. We performed combined endoscopic and open resection or applied an external approach alone when sufficient resection was difficult to achieve endoscopically. The objective of this study was to evaluate the validity of our treatment strategy.

METHODS

We assessed 30 patients with sinonasal mucosal melanoma who underwent definitive therapy between January 2002 and April 2021, and conducted a retrospective analysis. The median follow-up period was 2.2 years. The primary endpoint was overall survival. The Kaplan-Meier method was used for the calculation of survival rates, the cumulative incidence of distant metastasis, and local recurrence.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight patients underwent surgery. The other two patients were treated by definitive proton beam therapy. Twenty-one of 28 (75%) patients underwent resection by endoscopic approach alone. Postoperative radiotherapy was performed for all 28 patients who underwent surgery. Twenty-one patients (70%) experienced recurrence during the observation period. Overall, distant metastasis was observed in 19 patients. Twelve patients died during the observation period, with 10 of the 12 patients (83%) dying of distant metastasis. The overall survival rate at 2 and 5 years was 70% and 46%, respectively. The cumulative incidence rate of distant metastasis at 2 years was 63%, while the 2-year cumulative incidence rate of local recurrence was 6.7%.

CONCLUSION

The local disease was controlled by our treatment strategy. To improve treatment outcomes, control of the distant metastasis is needed.

Sinonasal mucosal melanoma: Is there a need for elective neck irradiation?

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) is a rare malignant neoplasm. The regional failure pattern and effectiveness of elective neck irradiation (ENI) were not well defined. Here, we would assess the value of ENI for clinical node negative (cN0) SNMM patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 107 SNMM patients treated at our institution over a period of 30 years was retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Five patients had lymph node metastases at diagnosis. Among the 102 cN0 patients analyzed, 37 patients had received ENI, and 65 patients had not. ENI significantly reduced the regional recurrence rate from 23.1% (15/65) to 2.7% (1/37). Ipsilateral levels Ib and II were the most common locations of regional relapse. Multivariate analysis also showed that ENI was the only independent favorable predictor for the achievement of regional control (HR: 9.120; 95% CI: 1.204-69.109; P = 0.032).

CONCLUSION

This is the largest cohort of SNMM patients from a single institution analyzed for the assessment of the value of ENI on regional control and survival. ENI significantly reduced the regional relapse rate in our study. Ipsilateral levels Ib and II might be considerable when deliver elective neck irradiation, more evidence is needed in the future.

[Rare cancers of the head and neck on behalf of the REFCOR, part 1]

Among the 16,000 new cases of malignant tumors of the head and neck diagnosed in France each year, 10% are not conventional squamous cell carcinomas. These so-called rare cancers are distinguished by their presentation and patterns of failure, which is important to recognize in order to offer specific adapted management and maximize the chances of tumor control. These cancers can be rare by their histology, which determines their local invasiveness, and their hematogenous/nodal spread. Their diagnosis can be difficult and often requires comprehensive immunohistochemistry and genomic techniques. Expert pathology review is recommended in the cases of undifferentiated tumors, sarcomas and at the slightest diagnostic doubt. These rare cancers can also be rare by their anatomical location when arising from the paranasal sinuses, salivary glands and ear. Their location requires knowledge of their specific extension routes, and may call for a specific surgical technique (skull base endoscopic sinus surgery, extended total parotidectomy, etc.) and adapted radiotherapy to spare healthy organs surrounding the tumor. This article (part 1) discusses the diagnostic and therapeutic specificities of these rare cancers, and develops the recommendations of the French ENT Cancer Expertise Network (REFCOR) concerning rare epithelial tumors, i.e., salivary tumors, sinonasal tumors, variants of conventional squamous cell carcinomas, neuroendocrine carcinomas, malignant odontogenic tumors, and ear tumors. A second article (part 2) is focused on non-epithelial tumors (sarcomas, mucosal melanomas, lymphomas, tumors of uncertain or undetermined malignancy) and describes the organization and missions of the REFCOR.

[Rare cancers of the head and neck on behalf of the REFCOR, part 2]

Among the 16,000 new cases of malignant tumors of the head and neck diagnosed in France each year, 10% are not conventional squamous cell carcinomas. These so-called rare cancers are distinguished by their presentation and patterns of failure, which is important to recognize in order to offer specific adapted management and maximize the chances of tumor control. These cancers can be rare by their histology as well as their anatomical location when arising from the paranasal sinuses, salivary glands and ear. The management of these heterogeneous rare diseases of complex treatment has considerably been structured over the last 15 years, in particular via the French ENT Cancer Expertise Network (REFCOR) and international networks and registries (EURACAN, etc.). Structuration also favors research with identification of new entities and setting up of specific therapeutic trials. A first article (part 1) discusses the diagnostic and therapeutic specificities of these rare cancers, and develops the recommendations of the REFCOR concerning rare epithelial tumors, i.e., salivary tumors, sinonasal tumors, variants of conventional squamous cell carcinomas, neuroendocrine carcinomas, malignant odontogenic tumors, and ear tumors. This second article (part 2) is focused on non-epithelial tumors (sarcomas, mucosal melanomas, lymphomas, tumors of uncertain or undetermined malignancy) and describes the organization and missions of the REFCOR.

Factors Contributing to Diagnosis and Prognosis in Sinonasal Malignancies

Objectives. This study was intended to explore and analyze the factors which affect the survival and prognosis of patients with malignant tumors of nasal cavity and sinus. Methods. Retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical data of 39 cases of malignant tumors of nasal cavity and sinus that met the requirements of the study. A follow-up study was performed on the patients for more than 36 months. Survival analysis was conducted via the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test. Cox regression model was used for multivariate analysis. Results. Gender, pathological type, treatment plan, clinical stage, and survival time of patients were different. Clinical stage was substantially related to the survival of patients ( $P<0.05$ ), which was an independent factor affecting prognosis. Conclusions. Early detection and comprehensive treatment of sinonasal malignancies can improve the prognosis and prolong the survival time of patients.

Patterns of recurrences in sinonasal cancers undergoing an endoscopic surgery-based treatment: Results of the MUSES* on 940 patients: *MUlti-institutional collaborative Study on Endoscopically treated Sinonasal cancers

OBJECTIVES

The improvements in survival with expansion of the survivors' population, along with evolution of endoscopically-based treatment modalities, have contributed to emphasize the clinical relevance of recurrences in sinonasal cancers. However, at present, literature is scant regarding the pattern of recurrences and the therapeutic strategies available to manage long survivors who experienced single or multiple failures. The aim of the present study was to analyze sinonasal cancers recurrences to provide data regarding rates and patterns of relapse, predictors of failure and prognostic impact of the recurrence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All patients receiving multimodal treatments including endoscopic surgery between 1995 and 2021 in three European referral centers were included. Statistical analysis of survival was performed through univariable, multivariable and unidirectional multistate models. Survival after recurrence analysis was implemented for patients experiencing at least one recurrence.

RESULTS

The 5- and 10-year recurrence free survival rates were 34.1% and 38.4% for the whole population. With a mean follow-up time of 60 months, a global recurrence rate of 32.9% was observed. The 5- and 10-year survival after recurrence rates were 27.2% and 21.7%, respectively. Incidence and rates of recurrences were significantly associated with histology subtypes.

CONCLUSION

This study provides valuable oncologic outcomes regarding a large homogenous cohort of patients affected by sinonasal malignances treated within a multimodal framework, emphasizing the strong correlation of histologic type with prognosis, as well as with pattern of recurrences.

Sinonasal Malignant Melanoma Variant: A Case Report

Sinonasal malignant melanoma (SMM) is a rare malignant tumour among head and neck cancers predominantly found in adults 60 years and above. The commonly reported symptoms for sinonasal tumour lesions are nasal obstruction and recurrent, painless epistaxis as the symptoms are non-specific and can delay the diagnosis. Moreover, melanoma has a poor prognosis regardless of its location. We report an 86-year-old female patient presenting with recurrent, painless epistaxis from the nasal cavity. Anterior rhinoscopic examination revealed a bluish-black, bleeding mass completely obstructing the left nasal nare. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography of the nasal cavity and sinus region showed a polypoidal soft tissue attenuation with heterogeneous enhancement completely filling the left nasal cavity. The patient underwent endoscopic excision. Histopathology of the specimen showed a small, round and blue cell tumour which immunohistochemistry found to be positive for S100 and HMB 45. After surgical resection, the patient received chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Sinonasal malignant melanoma is a rare, aggressive tumour that has a very poor prognosis. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses is the imaging modality of choice which reveals the enhancing mass. There is no optimal management strategy for SMM. Surgical resection is the first-line treatment but is limited due to the complex anatomy of the sinonasal region.

Sinonasal Mucosal Melanoma: An Update and Review of the Literature

ABSTRACT

Primary sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) is an aggressive tumor with high metastatic potential and poor outcomes. Presenting symptoms are nonspecific, and the nasal cavity is the most common site of origin followed by the maxillary and ethmoid sinuses. Histopathologically, SNMMs are pleomorphic and predominantly composed of epithelioid cell type. Identifying these tumors requires a high index of suspicion for melanoma and the use of a panel of immunohistochemical markers when typical histopathological features are missing. Not infrequently, these tumors are undifferentiated and/or amelanotic. Currently, SNMM falls into 2 different staging systems proposed by the American Joint Committee on Cancer, one for carcinoma of the nasal cavity and sinuses and the other for head and neck melanoma. Although therapeutic standards do not exist, surgical resection with adjuvant radiotherapy and/or systemic therapy may offer the best outcome. Lymphadenectomy including possible parotidectomy and neck dissection should be considered in patients with regional lymph node metastasis. However, the role of elective lymph node dissection is controversial. Genetic profiling has identified a number of recurrent gene mutations that may prove useful in providing targets for novel, emerging biological treatments. In this article, we provide an update on clinicopathological features, staging, molecular discoveries, and treatment options for SNMM.

Sinonasal Mucosal Melanoma: A Population-Based Comparison of the EUROCARE and SEER Registries

Introduction  Sinonasal melanomas are rare tumors with no comparative survival studies between Europe and the US.

Objective  To provide a population-based survival analysis between the two continents.

Methods  The European Cancer Registry (EUROCARE) and the United States Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) databases were queried to identify patients diagnosed with sinonasal melanoma between 2000 and 2007. Relative survival (RS) data were grouped by age, gender, geographic region, extent of disease, and treatment modality.

Results  A total of 1,294 cases were identified between 2000 and 2007 (935 from EUROCARE-5 and 359 from SEER). Females were most commonly identified in Europe (56.4%) and in the US (54.9%). Patients over the age of 65 years comprised the greatest proportion of patients in Europe (70%) and in the US (71%). By region, Southern Europe had the highest 5-year RS (31.6%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [21.3–42.5%]), and Eastern Europe the lowest (16.5%, [7.5–28.5%]). The aggregate European 5-year RS was 25.4% [21.8–29.1%] and the U.S. was (29.7%, [23.6–36%]).

Conclusions  Although increasing in incidence, sinonasal melanomas remain rare. Women were more commonly affected. The most common age group was those older than 65 years, although age did not confer a prognostic value. The most common subsite was the nasal cavity followed by the maxillary sinus. Five-year RS was similar between continents with an inverse relationship between extent of disease and survival. The treatment of choice throughout Europe and the US remains primarily surgical.

Nasal and paranasal sinus mucosal melanoma: Long-term survival outcomes and prognostic factors

OBJECTIVE

To determine prognostic factors and survival patterns for different treatment modalities for nasal cavity (NC) and paranasal sinus (PS) mucosal melanoma (MM).

METHODS

Patients from 1973 to 2013 were analyzed using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Kaplan-Meier method and multivariable cox proportional hazard modeling were used for survival analyses.

RESULTS

Of 928 cases of mucosal melanoma (NC = 632, PS = 302), increasing age (Hazard Ratio [HR]:1.05/year, p < 0.001), T4 tumors (HR: 1.81, p = 0.02), N1 status (HR: 6.61, p < 0.001), and PS disease (HR: 1.50, p < 0.001) were associated with worse survival. Median survival length was lower for PS versus NC (16 versus 26 months, p < 0.001). Surgery and surgery + radiation therapy (RT) improved survival over non-treatment or RT alone (p < 0.001). Adding RT to surgery did not yield a survival difference compared with surgery alone (p = 0.43). Five-year survival rates for surgery and surgery + RT were similar, at 27.7% and 25.1% (p = 0.43).

CONCLUSION

Surgery increased survival significantly over RT alone. RT following surgical resection did not improve survival.

Diagnostic pathway and stage migration of sinonasal malignancies in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic

OBJECTIVES

The COVID-19 pandemic bears the risk of delayed cancer diagnoses.

METHODS

Study on the diagnostic pathway of sinonasal malignancies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

RESULTS

Median time from first symptom to treatment initiation was not increased during the pandemic: 137 days (interquartile range [IQR] 104-193) vs 139 days (IQR 103-219) (P = .60). Median time from first appointment at our institution to treatment initiation was even reduced in 2020: 18 days (IQR 11-25) vs 11 days (IQR 7-17) (P = .02). A trend toward advanced tumor stages during the pandemic was seen: 11/30 patients (36.7%) ≥ stage 4 in 2018 to 2019 vs 12/19 patients (63.2%) ≥ stage 4 in 2020 (P = .064).

CONCLUSION

Both, time to diagnosis and time to treatment initiation were similar during the pandemic. However, a higher proportion of advanced tumors stages was observed. Despite the pandemic, we provided a swift diagnostic workflow, including a virtual tumor board decision and a prompt treatment initiation. Level of Evidence: 4.

Outcome for sinonasal malignancies: a population-based survey

Purpose

Sinonasal malignancies (SNM) represent a rare and complex group of cancers that includes a wide range of histopathological subtypes. Data from population-based cohorts are scarce but warranted as a basis for randomized controlled treatment trials (RCTs). Our aim was to assess overall and histology subset-specific outcomes for SNM patients treated at a tertiary referral centre.

Methods

A retrospective, population-based, consecutive cohort of patients with SNMs diagnosed from 2001 through 2019 was examined. Outcome was analysed in relation to age, gender, site, stage, histopathology, and treatment.

Results

Two-hundred and twenty-six patients were identified, whereof 61% presented with stage IV disease. 80% completed treatment with curative intent, which comprised surgery with neoadjuvant (29%) or adjuvant (37%) radiotherapy, monotherapy with surgery (22%), definitive chemoradiotherapy (7%), or radiotherapy (5%). Median follow-up was 106 months. The 5- and 10-year overall survival rates were 57% and 35%, respectively. Median overall survival was 76 months (esthesioneuroblastoma: 147 months; adenocarcinoma: 117; salivary carcinoma: 88; mucosal melanoma: 69; squamous cell carcinoma: 51, undifferentiated carcinoma: 42; neuroendocrine carcinoma: 9; and NUT-carcinoma 5). The 5- and 10-year disease-free survival rates were 63% and 54%, respectively, and disease-specific survival 83% and 66%. Increasing age, stage IVB, melanoma histopathology, and treatment with definitive chemoradiotherapy emerged as significant independent prognostic risk factors for disease-specific mortality (p ≤ 0.001).

Conclusion

The results indicate a seemingly good outcome in comparison to previous reports, particularly for mucosal melanoma, adenocarcinoma, and undifferentiated carcinoma. The study provides additional background for future RCTs focusing on histology subset-specific treatment for SNM.

What is the role of the surgeon in the management of head and neck mucosal melanoma in the immunotherapy era?

INTRODUCTION

The advent of immunotherapy has impacted both the management and, to a lesser extent, the outcomes for patients with head and neck mucosal melanoma. As a consequence, one might expect that the role of the surgeon would be limited to the diagnostic work-up and that systemic therapies would be the mainstay of treatment.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Here, we present the surgical aspects of the recently published United Kingdom Head and Neck Mucosal Melanoma Guideline to highlight the continued role of surgeons in the management of this disease. We highlight key areas where surgeons remain the lead clinician and reinforce the multidisciplinary requirement for exemplary patient care.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the advent of immunotherapy, surgeons continue to have a key role to play in this disease. When indicated, it is essential that appropriate surgery is offered by a suitably experienced team.

Surgical Management of Sinonasal Cancers: A Comprehensive Review

Surgery plays an important role in the treatment of sinonasal cancer. Many surgical approaches have been described, including open, endoscopic, or combined approaches. The choice is based on several criteria: general criteria related to the oncological results and morbidity of each technique, specific criteria related to the tumor (tumor extensions, tumor pathology), the patient, or the surgeon himself. The aims of this review are (i) to provide a complete overview of the surgical techniques available for the management of sinonasal malignant tumors, with a special focus on recent developments in the field of transnasal endoscopic surgery; (ii) to summarize the criteria that lead to the choice of one technique over another. In particular, the oncological outcomes, the morbidity of the different techniques, and the specificities of each histologic subtype will be discussed based on a comprehensive literature review.

Surgical Margin Status and Survival Following Resection of Sinonasal Mucosal Melanoma

OBJECTIVES

Sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) is an aggressive cancer usually managed with surgical resection. This study evaluates the impact of treatment modality and positive surgical margin (PSM) on survival following resection of SNMM.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective study of a national cancer registry.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database was queried for cases of SNMM from 2010 to 2015. Data regarding patient demographics, tumor staging, and treatment modality were obtained. Survival rates were compared by margin status: PSM, negative (NSM), and no operation (0SM) using Kaplan-Meier analysis and log rank test.

RESULTS

A total of 446 patients met inclusion criteria. Most cases were elderly (>66 years-old) (67.3%), female (54.3%), and white (89.5%). Cases of SNMM most commonly involved the nasal cavity (81.6%), were Stage 3 (60.0%), and underwent surgical resection at an academic center (65.0%). NSM and PSM were present in 59.0% and 26.9% of cases, respectively, while 14.1% of cases did not undergo surgical resection (0SM). Factors predictive of PSM included resection at a community hospital (OR 2.47) and Stage 4 disease (OR 2.07). The 2-year survival rates were 72.1% (95% CI 69.4-75.4%), 36.3% (95% CI 22.0-48.9), and 16.0% (95% CI 8.2-25.4%) for NSM, PSM and 0SM, respectively. Survival was statistically significant between NSM and PSM (Log rank <0.001) but not between 0SM and PSM (Log rank = 0.062).

CONCLUSION

Our study emphasizes the need for NSM for SNMM as PSM did not demonstrate any significant improvement in survival when compared to 0SM. Our findings suggest that cases of SNMM are best managed at academic centers.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 2021.

Melanoma of the lacrimal drainage system: A systematic review

Melanoma of the lacrimal drainage system (LDSM) is a rare and subtle condition that is frequently misdiagnosed. In the present work, we conducted a systematic review investigating the clinical features, management, and prognosis of LDSM. A structured search, according to PRISMA criteria, was performed in April 2020 and updated in February 2021 on Pubmed, EMBASE, Cochrane, and SCOPUS. The articles found underwent a double-reviewer selection and the main data were extracted. After complete screening, 30 articles reporting 38 cases were included. The time from the first symptom to medical contact ranged from 1 month to 4 years. Surgery was the treatment proposed to all patients, with a variable extension of resection. LDSM is a rare disease that is burdened by poor prognosis. Early diagnosis is crucial, even if difficult to achieve. Surgery and radiotherapy are standardized treatments, while targeted therapy and immunotherapy are attractive prospects.

Sinonasal mucosal melanoma: treatment strategies and survival rates for a rare disease entity : A single center experience and review of literature

Background

Sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) is a rare disease entity comprising 0.4–1.3% of all melanomas. Surgery with free margins has been the primary treatment over decades. Neither the addition of radiotherapy nor chemotherapy could significantly improve outcome rates of this devastating malignancy. This study presents our clinical experience with SNMM over a 19-year period and summarizes the current body of literature on SNMM.

Methods

This retrospective analysis included 12 patients with SNMM treated from 2001 to 2019 at an academic center. Additionally, a literature review of the last 29 years on treatment and survival data of SNMM was conducted.

Results

Main initial symptoms were epistaxis and nasal obstruction. Of the patients 9 underwent endoscopic surgery, 6 received adjuvant therapy. 3 patients who did not undergo surgery, received chemoradiotherapy, radiotherapy alone, and chemotherapy alone, respectively. At the time of diagnosis 2 patients had distant metastases and 4 patients developed distant metastases during the course of the disease. Mean overall survival (OS) was 30.6 months, 3‑year and 5‑year OS were 25%, and 18.2%, respectively.

Conclusion

Unspecific symptoms and hidden anatomic locations lead to delayed diagnosis and increased rates of metastatic dissemination. Distant metastasis is the main treatment failure in SNMM. Surgery with free margins remains the primary treatment for SNMM. Adjuvant radiotherapy might improve local control in individual cases but efficient systemic therapy is needed to improve outcome rates. To evaluate and define more effective targeted treatment options and improve outcome rates, homogeneous data and prospective multicentric analysis are needed.

Regional disease control in sinonasal mucosal melanoma: Systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To systematically analyze the regional disease control after sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) primary treatment.

METHODS

The study was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines searching on Scopus, PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar databases.

RESULTS

A total of 15 studies with 936 patients (median age: 68.0 years, IQR 65-71) were included. Overall, the cumulative regional recurrence rate (RRR) was 18.4% (n = 917, 99% CI: 14.0%-23.4%), with a median follow-up of 30.0 months (n = 765, IQR 22.0-37.0). The RRR in clinical node negative patients was 17.0% (99% CI: 12.2%-22.5%), with a median follow-up of 22.0 months (n = 327, IQR 21.5-31.5).

CONCLUSIONS

The RRR of SNMM after primary treatment is not to be neglected. Further prospective studies should be encouraged to clarify if elective treatment of the neck could be recommended at least in a subgroup of patients.

Primary tumor volume as a predictor of distant metastases and survival in patients with sinonasal mucosal melanoma

BACKGROUND

Sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) is an aggressive cancer with high mortality. Identifying patients at risk of distant metastasis assists with management and prognostication. We aimed to define the relationship between volume, survival, and risk of distant metastases.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all patients with SNMM treated at a single institution over a 21-year period was conducted. Tumor volume was calculated using cross-sectional imaging and survival analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Sixty-one patients were included. Tumor volume was predictive of local progression-free survival (P = .03), distant metastases-free survival (DMFS) (P = .002), and overall survival (OS) (P = .02). It was a better predictor than AJCC stage and T-classification. Tumor volume equal to or greater than 5 cm³ was associated with a significantly worse DMFS and OS (P = .02 and .009, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Calculation of tumor volume assists in quantifying the risk of distant metastases and death in SNMM.

Outcomes of sinonasal mucosal melanomas with endoscopic and open resection: a retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

To compare the outcomes of Sinonasal Mucosal Melanomas (SNMM) treated with endoscopic and open resection.

METHODS

A retrospective case review of 20 patients with SNMM treated surgically at UCSF. Kaplan-Meier analyses were calculated to determine outcome differences in endoscopic vs. open resections.

RESULTS

From 2005 to 2014, 20 cases of SNMM were confirmed and treated at UCSF. All cases underwent surgical resection, with 10 cases by open resection and 10 cases by endoscopic resection. Using Kaplan-Meier analyses, the open resection group had a 1-year survival of 30% whereas endoscopic resection group was 80% (p = 0.032). Endoscopic resection showed improved survival at all time points after surgery compared to open resection.

CONCLUSION

SNMM is a rare and aggressive tumor that is associated with low survival rates. In this small case series, endoscopic resection had improved survival outcomes compared to open resection.

Contemporary Multidisciplinary Management of Sinonasal Mucosal Melanoma

Sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) is a rare tumor, comprising less than 10% of sinonasal malignancies. SNMM most frequently occurs in the nasal cavity (70%) and maxillary sinus (14%), typically as black patches. Overall, SNMM harbors a very poor prognosis; 5-year survival is less than 30%. Nasal cavity tumors confer a better prognosis than sinus melanoma. The primary management for SNMM is surgery, when feasible, followed by adjuvant radiotherapy. Recent studies suggest that immunotherapy may confer survival benefit to patients with advanced disease. The multidisciplinary team approach has been shown to optimize treatment, reduce costs, and minimize adverse events, while maximizing the chances for cure.

Surgical Treatment of Sinonasal Mucosal Melanoma in Patients Treated with Systemic Immunotherapy

Objective  Surgical resection is widely accepted as a critical component for definitive treatment of sinonasal mucosal melanoma. Systemic immunotherapy, including multiple newer agents, has been used to treat metastatic or unresectable disease. In this study, we examine its efficacy in locoregional control when used in conjunction with surgical resection for primary mucosal lesions. Design  Present study is a retrospective review of all patients at a tertiary academic medical center with primary sinonasal mucosal melanoma and distant metastatic disease. Results  A total of four patients were identified. In all cases, patients were treated with a combination of surgical resection of the primary tumor and systemic immunotherapy. Three patients were initially treated with surgery at the primary site followed by immunotherapy for distant metastases. Response to immunotherapy at the sites of primary and metastatic disease was seen in two patients. All four patients developed progression or recurrence at the primary site following initiation of immunotherapy for which they underwent surgical resection. One patient remains in follow-up without evidence of disease 20 months after initial treatment; three succumbed to the disease at 135, 37, and 16 months after initial treatment. Conclusion  Surgical resection for local control plays a critically important role in the treatment of sinonasal mucosal melanoma regardless of the presence of metastases and whether immunotherapy will be given. This case series suggests that, though immunotherapy may demonstrate efficacy in managing distant disease, surgery should remain the first-line treatment for the primary site.

An updated review of mucosal melanoma: Survival meta-analysis

Mucosal melanoma (MM) is a highly lethal variant of melanoma that carries a poor prognosis. Extremely low incidence and survival rates have led to few clinical trials, and a lack of protocols and guidelines. The present study performed a survival meta-analysis for the quantitative synthesis of available evidence to search for key patterns that would help clinicians tailor optimal therapeutic strategies in MM. PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, MEDLINE, Google Scholar and other databases were searched. Hazard ratios, in disease-specific and overall survival, were calculated for each of the survival-determining variables. MM was 2.25 times more lethal than cutaneous melanoma (CM). The most significant threats to survival were advanced Tumor-Node-Metastasis stage, sino-nasal location, and old age. Chemotherapy was the most effective form of adjuvant therapy. Disease-specific survival, the primary measure of the effect sizes, can fluctuate depending on the accuracy of the reported cause of mortality. In conclusion, MM is a peculiar type of melanoma, with clinical and molecular profile vastly different from the much-familiar CM. In the wake of the era of precision oncology, further studies on driver mutations and oncogenic pathways would likely lead to improved patient survival.

Current concepts in advanced sinonasal mucosal melanoma: a single institution experience

PURPOSE

To present outcome measures of sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SMM) patients with particular focus on current radiological and therapeutic options, especially in the non-curative setting (immunotherapy).

METHODS

Retrospective study on SMM patients treated at our institution between January 1992 and December 2018.

RESULTS

FDG-PET/MRI has emerged as the new hybrid imaging modality, addressing the need for high local tissue contrast in the paranasal sinuses and the skull base, while allowing for whole-body staging in search for distant metastases, including the brain. Primary treatment protocols consisted of tumor resection in 30/34 patients (88%), palliative radiation therapy (RT) in 3/34 patients (9%) and best supportive care therapy in 1/34 patient (3%). Of all the initially operated patients, 25/30 patients (83%) received adjuvant RT. A total of 9/34 patients (26%) was treated with immunotherapy after the previous combined therapy. For patients treated in curative intention, we observed a 1-year overall survival (OS) of 60% (18/30 patients) and a 3-year OS of 40% (12/30 patients). For patients treated with immunotherapy, median progression-free survival (PFS) was 5 months (IQR 0-13.75), with a maximum PFS of 16 months (combination of nivolumab and ipilimumab). However, there was no difference in OS in patients treated with immunotherapy vs. no immunotherapy (log rank 0.99).

CONCLUSIONS

Sinonasal mucosal melanoma is a highly aggressive tumor, requiring multimodal therapy and developing a substantial incidence of distant metastases. The introduction of FDG-PET/MRI offers new possibilities in the radiological assessment of the tumor and immunotherapy has altered the management in the non-curative setting, resulting in a substantial progression-free survival in selected cases.

Treatment modalities in sinonasal mucosal melanoma: A national cancer database analysis

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of demographic factors, tumor stage, and treatment modalities for overall survival in patients with sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective database review.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database was queried for patients of all ages with SNMM between 2004 and 2015. Univariate Kaplan-Meier and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to evaluate the association of suspected prognostic factors with overall survival.

RESULTS

A total of 1,874 patients with SNMM were included in the analysis. The 5-year overall survival was 24%. Prognostic factors associated with decreased survival include advanced age (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.02, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01-1.03), T4 disease (HR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.09-1.89), and presence of distant metastases (HR: 3.22. 95% CI: 2.06-5.04). Improved survival was associated with surgical resection only when margins were negative (HR: 0.44; 95% CI: 0.30-0.65). In patients with metastatic disease, administration of immunotherapy (HR: 0.14; 95% CI: 0.04-0.49) was associated with improved survival. Surgical approach, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy were nonsignificant predictors of survival.

CONCLUSIONS

This investigation is the largest to date to analyze the association of treatment modalities with overall survival in SNMM. Surgery remains the mainstay of treatment in patients with SNMM. However, administration of immunotherapy may confer survival benefit to patients with metastatic disease.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

NA Laryngoscope, 130:275-282, 2020.

Open Versus Endoscopic Approach for Sinonasal Melanoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background

Open resection (OR) of sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNM) traditionally has been the gold standard for treatment. However, endoscopic resection (ER) has recently become a surgical alternative. The aim of this study was to compare survival outcomes between OR and ER of SNM.

Methods

A literature search encompassing PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Google Scholar was performed. Two reviewers independently screened for original studies comparing survival outcomes between OR and ER for SNM. Data were systematically collected on study design, patient demographics, outcomes, and level of evidence. Quality assessment was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS). Meta-analysis of overall survival and disease-free survival was performed using random-effects models.

Results

The initial search yielded 2078 abstracts, of which 9 cohort studies were included for a total of 510 patients from 6 different countries. The average quality of all included studies using the NOS was 7.7 stars. Six out of 7 studies reported no differences in the stages of SNM between patients receiving ER versus OR. Overall survival was longer in the ER group versus OR group (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.68, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.49–0.95). There was no significant difference in disease-free survival between groups (HR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.28–1.25).

Conclusion

Based on the available literature, an endoscopic approach for SNM resection has survival outcomes that are similar or greater compared to an open approach.

Oral manifestations of a sinus melanoma: case report and literature review

Introduction: Mucosal melanoma (MM) is a rare malignancy of the head and neck. Sinonasal melanomas are the most frequent, followed by oral melanomas. Observation: A 67-year-old patient with a known left sinus melanoma initially treated with immunotherapy was referred for consultation concerning mobile teeth. A pigmented lesion infiltrating the left maxillary arch in the molar area was detected. The malignancy had invaded the oral mucosa. Despite many proposed treatments (immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy), the patient showed metastatic progression, which resulted in death. Discussion: Sinus MMs are malignancies with poor prognosis because these are often diagnosed in the late stages of disease progression. As these tumors are rare, there is no treatment consensus and surgery remains the best option. Diagnosis of pigmented lesions of the oral mucosa is sometimes complicated because of various implied etiologies. Conclusion: This case report shows that sinus MMs can induce pigmentation in the oral mucosa. These are rare malignancies with poor prognosis, for which no treatment consensus exists to date.

Endoscopic endonasal approaches for the management of cranial base malignancies: histologically guided treatment and clinical outcomes

Malignancies of the skull base represent a highly diverse and challenging set of pathologies which exhibit a wide array of oncologic behavior. In recent decades, a number of important advances in treatment technique have evolved to improve oncologic outcomes and reduce morbidity in the treatment of these aggressive cancers. Intensity modulated radiation therapy has become the gold standard in radiotherapy owing to its precision planning and reduced morbidity. However heavy ion particle radiation (proton therapy, carbon ion, etc.) are recently emerging with promising results at the skull base related to the reduced exit dose to adjacent structures. Novel systemic therapeutics such as targeted and immunotherapies may dramatically alter the treatment paradigm for many of these pathologies. Nevertheless, most skull base malignancies remain surgical diseases. The evolution of the expanded endonasal approach for a minimally invasive surgical resection has proven validity in treating many of these pathologies when properly selected, and have largely supplanted open approaches owing to the reduced morbidity profile. In spite of these important advances, the most critical aspect in comprehensive treatment is a detailed understanding of the oncologic behavior and outcomes data for each of the specific histopathologies encountered at the skull base. The nuances in management strategy, histologic profile, and surveillance planning can be stratified through the development of a comprehensive, multidisciplinary skull base team to maximize therapeutic effect and minimize morbidity for each patient. This review aims to summarize the key body of data and approaches for each of the histologies frequently encountered in the skull base, while highlighting the value and technique of endonasal approaches.

Updates in the management of sinonasal mucosal melanoma

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) is an aggressive cancer with a poor prognosis. Although there is significant study surrounding the treatment of sinonasal malignancies and cutaneous melanomas, the rarity of this tumor has largely precluded robust outcomes analyses. The authors of this review seek to provide an overview of the recent literature related to the treatment of SNMM with added context from our institutional experience with this disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

In the surgical management of sinonasal malignancies and SNMM specifically, resection via endoscopic endonasal technique appears to offer comparable oncologic outcomes versus an open approach. The role of adjuvant therapy continues to be debated, but there is strong evidence for improved rates of local control with radiotherapy after complete resection. In the last few years, significant developments have been made in the study of systemic therapies for cutaneous melanoma. The identification of genetic mutations common to mucosal melanoma has allowed for early trials of targeted therapies, but study is ongoing.

SUMMARY

Although the study of SNMM is largely limited to small retrospective case series, treatment continues to evolve. Until effective systemic therapies can be identified, endoscopic resection with adjuvant radiotherapy may offer the best disease-free survival with acceptably low morbidity.

Radiotherapy alone as a method of treatment for sinonasal mucosal melanoma: A report based on six cases and a review of current opinion

Objectives

Radiotherapy in patients with sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) was given as alternative treatment to surgery in cases with advanced, inoperable tumors or those not eligible for surgery. We presented the outcomes for patients with SNMM treated with radiotherapy alone.

Material and methods

The retrospective review of 6 consecutive SNMM (nasal cavity - 4 pts. and paranasal sinus - 2 pts.) patients (3 males and 3 females at mean age 64 years) treated between 2008 and 2016 was presented. The stage of disease was: T3 (1 pt.), T4a (3 pts.), T4b (2 pts.); with N0 and M0 in all patients. All patients underwent definitive primary photon radiotherapy (IMRT) alone; dose 66-72 Gy was delivered in 22-24 fractions given in 5 fractions (3 Gy) a week.

Results

The complete remission was observed in all our patients but only one patient survived 5 years without disease. Five patients died due to multiple distant metastases; two of those patients developed associated local recurrence 7-8 months after radiotherapy.

Conclusion

SNMM has a poor prognosis due to its high metastatic potential. Based on our numerically small report and data from literature we concluded that primary radiotherapy alone assured complete remission and even 5-year disease-free survival in only a few individual patients.

Patterns of Treatment Failure in Patients with Sinonasal Mucosal Melanoma

BACKGROUND

Head and neck mucosal melanoma is a locally aggressive tumor with a high recurrence rate. The paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity are the most common primary tumor sites.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this retrospective study was to identify independent predictors of outcome in sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) and characterize the patterns of treatment failure.

METHODS

This study included 198 patients with SNMM who had been treated at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center from 1 January 1991 through 31 December 2016. The survival outcomes included overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), disease-free survival (DFS), local recurrence-free survival, and distant metastasis-free survival. A stepwise regression analysis was used to assess associations in the multivariate models.

RESULTS

The 5-year OS, DSS, and DFS rates were 38, 58, and 27%, respectively. Independent predictors of poor OS and DSS were the paranasal sinuses as the primary tumor site [hazard ratio (HR) 1.73, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.11-2.66; and HR 2.12, 95% CI 1.21-3.74, respectively] and the presence of distant metastases at presentation (HR 4.53, 95% CI 2.24-7.83; and HR 3.6, 95% CI 1.12-7.1). Recurrence occurred in 96 patients (48%). The most common cause of treatment failure was distant metastasis in 69 of 198 patients (35%), followed by local [36 (18%)] and regional [22 (11%)] recurrence.

CONCLUSION

The most common cause of treatment failure in SNMM is distant metastasis. The tumor site and the presence of metastatic disease at presentation were the only independent predictors of survival. These data can be used to inform quality improvement efforts and the counseling of high-risk SNMM patients.

Endoscopic resection of sinonasal mucosal melanoma has comparable outcomes to open approaches

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic endonasal resection (EER) of sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SMM) is a newer surgical alternative to traditional external and/or open resection (OR). Studies on long-term outcomes are necessary to validate EER for this aggressive sinonasal malignancy.

OBJECTIVE

To compare outcomes of EER versus OR in SMM.

METHODS

A case series of patients who underwent surgical resection of SMM at a tertiary-care institution (2000-2015) was studied retrospectively. Demographics, tumor site and stage, surgical approach, surgical margin status, local control, and survival were compared between those who underwent EER and OR.

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients met inclusion criteria. Nine underwent EER and 13 underwent OR. The mean age in the EER and OR groups was similar, 78.7 and 72.3 years, respectively. Two-thirds of patients were women (EER, 66.7%; OR, 61.5%). The nasal cavity was the most common primary tumor site (EER, 77.8%; OR, 84.6%). The local tumor stage in both groups was similar, with the majority of cases being T4 (EER, 55.6%; OR, 61.5%; p = 0.99). Negative margins were achieved in all EERs and in 69.2% of ORs. Median follow-up was 25.0 months for the overall group (range, 1.7-172.9 months), 32.6 months (range, 3.4-58.7 months) for EER and 14.1 months (range, 1.7-172.9 months) for OR cohorts. The 5-year overall survival was statistically similar in both groups (EER, 53.3%; OR, 22.7%; p = 0.214) as was disease-free survival (EER, 55.6%; OR, 22.8%; p = 0.178). Local control, however, was significantly higher in the EER cohort (EER, 85.7%; OR, 37.6%; p = 0.026).

CONCLUSION

In carefully selected patients with sinonasal melanoma, endoscopic surgery with an experienced team may offer comparable survival and improved local control over open surgery. Prospective, multicentered studies with larger cohorts are needed to validate these results.

Melanoma of the Sinonasal Tract: Value of a Septate Pattern on Precontrast T1-Weighted MR Imaging

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Various tumors of the sinonasal tract can exhibit high signal intensity on T1WI. The purpose of this study was to determine the value of a septate pattern on precontrast T1WI for diagnosing sinonasal melanoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospectively, 3 observers independently reviewed MR images of 31 histologically proved sinonasal melanomas with special attention to the presence or absence of a septate pattern on precontrast T1WI, defined as alternating hyperintense and hypointense striations on precontrast T1WI. For comparison, we evaluated the prevalence of a septate pattern on precontrast T1WI in 106 nonmelanomatous sinonasal malignant tumors with 16 different histologic types. We also tried to identify the histopathologic features responsible for the septate pattern on precontrast T1WI.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven (87.1%) of 31 sinonasal melanomas showed hyperintense foci on T1WI, among which a septate pattern on precontrast T1WI was seen in 23 (74.2%), while 22 (20.8%) of 106 nonmelanomatous malignant tumors demonstrated hyperintense foci on T1WI, among which only 3 (2.8%) showed a septate pattern on precontrast T1WI. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of a septate pattern on precontrast T1WI for the diagnosis of sinonasal melanoma were 74%, 97%, 88%, 93%, and 92%, respectively. Although limited due to the retrospective nature, 4 of 23 histologically reviewed sinonasal melanomas revealed an uneven distribution of melanin with alternating melanin and fibrous bands within the tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

A septate pattern on precontrast T1WI might be an adjunctive imaging finding for the diagnosis of sinonasal melanoma. This might be attributed histologically to an uneven distribution of melanin and hemorrhage within the tumors.

Adjuvant radiotherapy in sinonasal mucosal melanoma: A retrospective analysis

OBJECTIVES

Evaluation of outcome after curative treatment for sinonasal mucosal melanoma focused on the effect of adjuvant radiotherapy on recurrence and survival.

DESIGN

Retrospective chart analysis.

SETTING

Tertiary referral hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifty-one patients with primary sinonasal mucosal melanoma who underwent surgical resection with curative intention between 1980 and 2016 at Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Patients were categorised into 2 groups: surgery alone and surgery with adjuvant radiotherapy. Log-rank test was used to compare rates of recurrence and survival between treatment groups. Predictors for treatment modality, recurrence and survival were assessed with multivariate statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Of all patients, 23.5% developed local recurrence and 47.1% developed distant metastasis. Estimated 5-year disease-free survival was 25.2%, and 5-year overall survival (OS) was 38.1%. Forty-three patients (84.3%) were treated with post-operative radiotherapy. Patients who underwent surgery with adjuvant radiotherapy presented more often with high tumour stage, tumour involving multiple sites and positive margins. Post-operative radiotherapy seemed to be associated with better local control (P = .549). No effect was found on occurrence of distant metastasis and OS. Positive margin status was an independent negative predictor for distant metastasis-free survival and overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Our treatment outcomes are consistent with literature. Post-operative radiotherapy seems to be associated with improved local control despite advanced disease and positive margin status in this treatment group.

The natural history and patterns of metastases from mucosal melanoma: an analysis of 706 prospectively-followed patients

BACKGROUND

We examined whether mucosal melanomas are different in their clinical course and patterns of metastases when arising from different anatomic sites. Our hypothesis was that metastatic behavior would differ from primary mucosal melanomas at different anatomical sites.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Clinical and pathological data from 706 patients were compared for their stage distribution, patterns of metastases, CKIT/BRAF mutation status, and overall survival for different anatomical sites.

RESULTS

The anatomic sites of the primary mucosal melanomas were from the lower GI tract (26.5%), nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses (23%), gynecological sites (22.5%), oral cavity (15%), urological sites (5%), upper GI tract (5%), and other sites (3.0%). At initial diagnosis, 14.5% were stage I disease, 41% Stage II, 21.5% Stage III, and 23.0% stage IV. Predominant metastatic sites were regional lymph nodes (21.5%), lung (21%), liver (18.5%), and distant nodes (9%). Oral cavity mucosal melanoma had a higher incidence of regional nodal metastases (31.7% versus 19.8%, P = 0.009), and a higher incidence of lung metastases (32.5% versus 18.5%, P = 0.007) compared to other primary mucosal melanomas. There was a 10% incidence of CKIT mutation and 12% BRAF mutation. Mucosal melanomas from nasal pharyngeal and oral, gastrointestinal, gynecological, and urological had a similar survival with a 1-year survival rate (88%, 83%, 86%), 2-year survival rate (66%, 57%, 61%), 5-year survival rate (27%, 16%, 20%), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The largest sample size allows, for the first time, a comparison of primary melanoma stage and patterns of metastases across anatomical sites. With few exceptions, the presenting stages, incidence of nodal and distant metastases, the site of predilection of distant metastases, or overall survival were similar despite different primary anatomic sites. These findings suggest that clinical trials involving mucosal melanomas and the administration of systemic therapy can be applied equally to mucosal melanomas regardless of their primary anatomic site.