Invasive melanoma of the hallux

The authors present a classic case of superficial spreading melanoma. Superficial spreading melanoma is the most commonly acquired cutaneous malignant melanoma. Its true etiology is unknown. Superficial spreading melanoma may remain in the epidermis with peripheral extension (radial growth phase) for as long as 5 years before invading deeper tissue layers. Definitive diagnosis is established through biopsy. Treatment, following biopsy, involves wide radical excision, and possibly lymphadenectomy and combination chemotherapy depending on the extent of the pathology.