Acral Lentiginous Melanoma accounts for less than 5% of all melanomas but is the most common melanoma in African Americans and Asians; although this may also occur in light-skinned (Caucasian) individuals. Acral comes from the Greek word akron, meaning extremity, and the disease typically appears on the palms, soles, or under the nails. Lesions are usually tan, brown, or black, with variations in color and irregular borders. Because of the misconceptions that melanomas only occur in sun-exposed areas, and that dark-skinned and Asian people are not at risk for melanoma, these melanomas are often discovered later than other forms of melanoma. A tendency to mistake the early signs of acral lentiginous melanoma for bruises or injuries to the palms, soles, or nailbeds may further delay diagnosis.
