Melanoma of the hand

Melanomas of the hand are relatively rare, and much confusion exists concerning their pathology and treatment. We reviewed our experience with 39 patients diagnosed with melanoma of the hand. The data were categorized by site, histology, and type of treatment. Most primaries were on the digits, with a few tumors arising on the palm. The most common histology was superficial spreading melanoma, even in the subungual location. Acral lentiginous melanoma accounted for only 8 of 39 cases. Most patients could be treated without radical amputations, even for melanomas on the digits. Review of our patients emphasized the need for early diagnosis. Biopsy of all unexplained pigmented lesions on the hands can lead to early diagnosis, relatively nondeforming treatment, and good survival.