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acral melanoma

(AK-rul MEH-luh-NOH-muh)
A rare type of melanoma that occurs in areas of the body that are usually not exposed to sunlight, such as the palms of the hands, bottoms of the feet, or under the nails. Melanoma is a type of cancer that begins in melanocytes (cells that make a substance called melanin, which gives color to skin and eyes). Acral melanoma can occur in anyone, but it is more common in people with darker skin tones. Also called acral lentiginous melanoma.
Search NCI's Dictionary of Cancer Terms