Melanoma in skin of color: Part I. Epidemiology and clinical presentation

Although there is a higher incidence of melanoma among non-Hispanic white individuals, melanoma is diagnosed at more advanced stages and associated with worse survival rates among individuals with skin of color (SOC). The proportion of melanoma subtypes differs across racial groups, with acral lentiginous melanoma and mucosal melanoma representing higher proportions of melanoma diagnoses in individuals with SOC compared to white individuals. Recognition of distinct differences in anatomic location and dermoscopic patterns may facilitate appropriate differentiation of physiologic from pathologic pigmentation. The first article of this continuing medical education series will focus on epidemiology and the clinical presentation of melanoma in individuals with SOC with the aim of improving early diagnosis and clinical outcomes.