Test Your Knowledge | Volume 20: 48 | 14 Jul 2025

A dark umbilical nodule in a postmenopausal woman: What is your diagnosis?

ABSTRACT

Sister Mary Joseph’s nodule is a rare but significant clinical sign that often indicates advanced intra- abdominal malignancy. It presents as a palpable umbilical nodule and may be the first indication of an occult primary cancer. In this article, we discuss the case of a 58-year-old postmenopausal woman who presented to a primary care clinic with a darkened umbilical lesion and progressive abdominal symptoms. She was ultimately diagnosed with metastatic endometrial carcinoma. This uncommon presentation highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to umbilical lesions in the primary care setting. Recognising this subtle sign in primary care can lead to expedited investigations and timely intervention.