Acral lentiginous melanoma of the foot and ankle: A case series and review of the literature

Bristow, Ivan R. and Acland, Katharine (2008) Acral lentiginous melanoma of the foot and ankle: A case series and review of the literature. Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, 1 (11), 1-5. (doi:10.1186/1757-1146-1-11).

Record type: Article

Abstract

Background: Acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM) is an uncommon, cutaneous malignant tumour which may arise on the foot. Its relative rarity, atypical appearance and late presentation frequentlyserve as poor prognostic indicators. Methods: At a tertiary skin tumour centre, a retrospective review was undertaken of all patientsdiagnosed with the tumour at the level of ankle or below.
Results: Over a six year period, 27 cases (20 female, 7 male) were identified with positive histology confirming the disease. The age ranged from 35–96 years of age (mean 62.7 years). The majorityof the cohort were white (59%) with plantar lesions (62%). 33% of patients were initially were diagnosed incorrectly. The average time taken from the point of recognition, by the patient, to the lesion being correctly diagnosed was around 13.5 months.
Conclusion: Earlier diagnosis of ALM requires education at both a patient and practitioner level.

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