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

Ivan R Bristow and Katharine Acland

Journal of Foot and Ankle Research 2008, 1:11doi:10.1186/1757-1146-1-11


Published: 15 September 2008

Abstract (provisional)
Acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM) is an uncommon, cutaneous malignant tumour which may arise on the foot. Its relative rarity, atypical appearance and late presentation frequently serve as poor prognostic indicators.

Methods
At a tertiary skin tumour centre, a retrospective review was undertaken of all patients diagnosed 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 majority of 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.

Conclusions
Earlier diagnosis of ALM requires education at both a patient and practitioner level.

 

"Bob Marley, famous reggae artist, was killed by acral lentiginous melanoma that was present under one of his toenails."


Steve

 

Steve,
Was he actually killed by the melanoma or was there already other cancer in his body that did him in?


Perry

 

Hi Perry:

Don't quote me but I think the sub ungual melanoma was primary and, obviously, metastasized.

Steve

 

For those who may be interested,

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Regards,
Mandy

 

thanks twirly, very interesting.
I wonder how securely any of us would hold on to our beliefs when challenged by death.
Steve