Melanocytic lesions of the palms and soles are common in the US, according to a prospective examination involving 1,052 individuals. This is especially the case among ethnic people.

Using dermoscopy, investigators assessed the prevalence, awareness, and dermoscopic patterns of acral melanocytic lesions in skin-of-color and white participants who came to dermatology clinics in New York and Miami over ~1.5 years. Among the results:

• Acral melanocytic lesions were seen in 36% of participants.

• Those with skin-of-color were more likely to have acral melanocytic lesions than whites.

• Acral melanocytic lesions were linked with increased mole counts, especially in whites.

• Most lesions showed benign dermoscopic patterns.

• There were 2 lesions with a parallel ridge pattern, which turned out to be atypical nevi.

• Patients often did not know they had the lesions.

Citation: Madankumar R, Gusmaste P, Martires K, et al. Acral melanocytic lesions in the United States: Prevalence, awareness, and dermoscopic patterns in skin-of-color and non-Hispanic white patients. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2016;74(4)724-730.e1. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2015.11.035.