ACRAL MELANOMA
A melanoma that occurs on the digits, hands, or feet has been called an acral melanoma. It is the least common of the major types, but the most common in darker-skinned patients. The term acral lentiginous melanoma is a subtype of acral melanoma in which atypical melanocytes proliferate along the dermal epidermal junction in a diffuse lentiginous fashion.
- A study of 123 patients with melanoma of the sole found a higher incidence in the front and the rear of the foot compared to the mid foot and arch. The authors postulated that mechanical stress may increase the risk of formation of melanomas on the plantar surface.
See also melanoma of the nail.
Diagnosis
In general, the ABCDE criteria for pigmented lesions applies to the acral areas as well. Various dermascopic criteria have been described.
RegionalDerm
Homepage | Who is Dr. White? | Privacy Policy | FAQs | Use of Images | Contact Dr. White
It is not the intention of RegionalDerm.com to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. RegionalDerm.com only intends to provide users with information regarding various medical conditions for educational purposes and will not provide specific medical advice. Information on RegionalDerm.com is not intended as a substitute for seeking medical treatment and you should always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and for answers to your individual questions. Information contained on RegionalDerm.com should never cause you to disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking treatment. If you live in the United States and believe you are having a medical emergency call 911 immediately.
