Acral Lentiginous Melanoma: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Acral Lentiginous Melanoma: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Article
Focused Health Topics
Skin Care
+1
Contributed byKrish Tangella MD, MBA+1 moreApr 03, 2023

Introduction:

Acral Lentiginous Melanoma (ALM) is a type of skin cancer that occurs on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and under the nails. It is a rare form of melanoma, but it is the most common type of melanoma found in people with darker skin. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for Acral Lentiginous Melanoma.

Symptoms of Acral Lentiginous Melanoma:

The most common symptoms of Acral Lentiginous Melanoma include:

  • Dark, irregularly shaped lesions on the palms, soles, or under the nails
  • Color variation within the lesion
  • Enlargement or change in the shape or color of an existing mole
  • Ulceration or bleeding of the lesion

Causes of Acral Lentiginous Melanoma:

The exact cause of Acral Lentiginous Melanoma is not fully understood. However, several factors have been linked to its development, including:

  • Genetics
  • Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation
  • Family history of melanoma
  • Weakened immune system
  • Acral lentiginous nevus syndrome

Diagnosis of Acral Lentiginous Melanoma:

Diagnosis of Acral Lentiginous Melanoma typically involves a physical exam and a biopsy of the affected area. If the biopsy confirms a diagnosis of melanoma, imaging tests may be ordered to determine if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Treatment of Acral Lentiginous Melanoma:

Treatment options for Acral Lentiginous Melanoma may include:

  • Surgery to remove the cancerous lesion and surrounding tissue
  • Radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Immunotherapy
  • Targeted therapy

The treatment plan for Acral Lentiginous Melanoma will depend on the stage of the cancer, the location of the lesion, and the individual patient's health status.

Conclusion:

Acral Lentiginous Melanoma is a rare but serious form of skin cancer that occurs on the palms, soles, and under the nails. While the exact cause of this cancer is not fully understood, several factors have been linked to its development, including genetics, UV radiation, family history, weakened immune system, and Acral lentiginous nevus syndrome. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. If you suspect that you may have Acral Lentiginous Melanoma, it is important to seek a professional diagnosis and treatment from a dermatologist or oncologist.

Hashtags: #AcralLentiginousMelanoma #ALM #SkinCancer #Melanoma #UVRadiation #FamilyHistory #WeakenedImmuneSystem #ALNS #Treatment

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Krish Tangella MD, MBA picture
Author

Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team
Alexandra Warren picture
Author

Alexandra Warren

Senior Editorial Staff

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