Controversies in Acral Lentiginous Melanoma

BACKGROUND: Acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM) is a subtype of melanoma initially described only two and half decades ago, but well-recognized by dermatologists today. However, several areas of controversy surround this entity. OBJECTIVE: The primary aims of this article are to review the literature, highlight recent advances, and review some of the ongoing controversies in ALM. METHODS: A review of the English language literature was performed. RESULTS: Controversy continues to surround ALM, particularly in regard to diagnostic histologic and clinical criteria. This leads to difficulties when reviewing studies that evaluate the epidemiology, etiology, and prognosis of ALM. CONCLUSION: Progress in understanding ALM requires the development of standardized diagnostic criteria.