Plantar acral melanoma: epidemiological, clinical, dermoscopic and histopathological features. A Brazilian cohort

Background

Acral melanomas (AM) are rare and approximately two-thirds of them occur on the soles of the feet beeing more prevalent in black and Asian individuals. Data on this subtype of melanoma are scarce in the Brazilian population.

Objectives

To describe and correlate the epidemiological, clinical, dermoscopic, and histopathological features of AM a.

Methods

Single-center, retrospective and cross-sectional study, evaluating data from a 15-year period.

Results

A total of 48 cases were included. Mean age was 62.54 years, with a predominance of women (62.5%). The percentage of amelanotic melanomas was higher among lighter skin patients (20% × 7.7%). Polychromia was the most prevalent finding (94.4%). The parallel ridge pattern (PRP) had a prevalence of 78% and a serrated pattern was associated with lower Breslow thickness (p = 0.041). Ulceration present on histopathological (p = 0.013) or dermoscopic (p = 0.047) evaluation was associated with greater Breslow thickness.

Study limitations

Retrospective study with loss of data.

Conclusion

Amelanotic tumors were more prevalent in ligther phototypes (20% × 7.7%). Polychromia was the most prevalent finding (94.4%) and ulceration observed on clinical or histopathological evaluation was associated with higher Breslow thickness (p = 0.013 and 0.047).