Acral Lentiginous Melanoma
Pronunciation: AY-kral len-TIJ-ih-nus mel-uh-NOH-muh
A subtype of melanoma arising on the palms, soles, or beneath the nail plate, often diagnosed late due to its atypical location.
Full Definition
Acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM) is a distinct clinical and histological subtype of melanoma that occurs on acral skin — the palms, soles, and subungual (under-nail) surfaces. It is the most common melanoma subtype in patients with darker skin tones and is frequently misdiagnosed as a benign lesion, leading to delayed treatment. Editors working with dermatology reports must distinguish it from other melanoma subtypes and ensure the anatomical descriptor 'acral' is used precisely. The term should not be abbreviated to 'ALM' without prior expansion in clinical documents.
Usage
Usage note: Do not conflate with 'acral melanoma,' which is a broader and less precise term. 'Acral lentiginous' must be spelled out in full on first use in any clinical document.
In Context
- "The pathology report confirmed acral lentiginous melanoma of the right hallux with a Breslow thickness of 2.4 mm." — Histopathology report
- "Editors should verify that 'acral lentiginous melanoma' is not shortened to 'acral melanoma' without qualification in peer-reviewed manuscripts." — Editorial style guide