title: Metastatic melanoma of unknown primary tumor.
abstract: The appearance of metastasis without clinically demonstrable primary tumor is one of melanoma's challenges. The aim of this study was to recognize the specific characteristics of this occurrence. Based on our study of three patients, we have proposed theories to explain this behavior, its clinical approach, and therapeutic management. We conclude by stressing the importance of finding the primary tumor or traces of it.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, University Clinic, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.
authors.forename: M J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Serna
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Vázquez-Doval
authors.forename: M A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Sola
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Ruiz de Erenchun
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Quintanilla
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005887:Gingival Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology / Q000556:secondary; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology / Q000556:secondary; D006801:Humans; D008207:Lymphatic Metastasis / Q000473:pathology; D008297:Male; D008545:Melanoma / Q000473:pathology / Q000556:secondary*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009382:Neoplasms, Unknown Primary / Q000473:pathology; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology / Q000556:secondary