Which type of melanoma is generally seen in older patients and is slow-spreading?

• A. Accelerated melanoma
• B. Acral lentiginous melanoma
• C. Superficial spreading melanoma
• D. Lentigo maligna melanoma

Answer: (D)

Lentigo maligna melanoma is a type of melanoma that is most commonly observed in older patients and is characterized by a slow-spreading growth pattern. This melanoma typically presents as a flat or slightly raised mole that has irregular borders and can vary in color, often found on sun-exposed skin, particularly the face, ears, and scalp. It often arises from a precursor lesion known as lentigo maligna, which refers to the localized stage that can develop over many years before progressing to invasive melanoma.

The slow development is significant because it allows for an extended period for monitoring and potential early intervention, making awareness and recognition of its features important in older populations who may be more affected by sun exposure over their lifetime. It is critical to differentiate lentigo maligna melanoma from other forms of melanoma, which may present differently in terms of speed of growth and typical demographic patterns.