Primary malignant melanoma is only rarely found in the oral cavity (estimat
ed at between 0.2 and 8 per cent of all melanomas) and occurs approximately
four times more frequently in the oral mucosa of the upper jaw, usually on
the palate or alveolar gingivae. A case is reported of a malignant melanom
a in the mouth of a 74 year old male, which was originally diagnosed as rea
ctive denture hyperplasia caused by a ill-fitting upper denture. Correction
of the denture fault failed to stop the growth of the mass, which was ther
efore removed surgically. Histological examination revealed a melanin-produ
cing tumour. A partial maxillectomy was performed and there was no evidence
of recurrence over a three year follow-up period.