Malignant Melanoma of the Oral Cavity: A Review

Primary malignant melanoma is a rare and aggressive neoplasm that originates from the proliferation of melanocytes. Most of the mucosal melanomas are usually asymptomatic in early stages, and presents as pigmented patch or a mass delaying the diagnosis until symptoms of swelling, ulceration, bleeding, or loosening of teeth are noted. The prognosis is extremely poor, especially in advanced stages. Therefore, any pigmented lesion of undetermined origin should always be biopsied.