The incidence of melanoma is lower in Asians, including Koreans, than in whites, although there is a definite upward trend.^1,2 Although one main characteristic of melanoma in Koreans is the high proportion that occurs at acral sites (palmoplantar with the medial and lateral sides of the fingers, toes, hands, and feet, as well as parts of the wrists and heels), the clinicopathologic features of acral melanoma in Koreans rarely have been clarified.^1,3 Quiz Ref ID The pathogenesis of acral melanoma remains unclear since classic risk factors, such as sun exposure, fair skin type, family or personal history of previous melanoma, and preexisting melanocytic nevi, for melanoma appear to be less relevant in acral lesions.^4-8 The more intense and long-term trauma experienced in acral locations may be a predisposing factor due principally to the anatomic location of the weight-bearing area.^9,10 This hypothesis raises the question as to how the acral site is affected by long-term physical stress or pressure strength. Therefore, we evaluated the epidemiologic and clinicopathologic characteristics of acral melanoma in Koreans by detailed anatomic mapping and elucidated correlations between acral melanoma and long-term physical stress or pressure strength by analyzing differences in the incidence, prognosis of the distinct site, and the melanoma spreading pattern on the soles.

Bae YI, et al. Ann Dermatol. 2009 Aug;21(3):243-249. http://dx.doi.org/10.5021/ad.2009.21.3.243

Kim SY, et al. Chonnam Med J. 2016 Sep;52(3):185-193. https://doi.org/10.4068/cmj.2016.52.3.185

Choi DI, et al. Ann Dermatol. 2021 Feb;33(1):26-36. https://doi.org/10.5021/ad.2021.33.1.26