Diverse presentations of acral melanoma

Robyn P M Saw, Annette H Chakera, Jonathan R Stretch, Rebecca L Read

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Acral melanoma (AM) is an uncommon melanoma subtype occurring on the palms, soles and nail apparatus. It often lacks the typical features of primary melanoma resulting in delayed diagnosis.

OBJECTIVE: This article aims to raise awareness of AM and promote a high index of clinical suspicion to enable early diagnosis and improve outcomes for patients with AM.

DISCUSSION: The diagnosis of AM is often delayed because its presentation mimics other benign conditions such as fungal infections and ulcers. When lesions that were thought to be benign fail to respond to appropriate therapies, biopsy is critically important to exclude AM or other malignant pathology. Clinician awareness of the diversity of AM presentations, maintaining AM as part of their differential diagnosis and facilitating early biopsy are essential for early diagnosis and improving outcomes in patients with AM.

OriginalsprogEngelsk
TidsskriftAustralian Family Physician
Vol/bind44
Udgave nummer1-2
Sider (fra-til)43-5
Antal sider3
ISSN0300-8495
StatusUdgivet - 18 feb. 2015
Udgivet eksterntJa

Fingeraftryk

Dyk ned i forskningsemnerne om 'Diverse presentations of acral melanoma'. Sammen danner de et unikt fingeraftryk.

Citationsformater