Final answer:
Acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM) is the most common melanoma in dark-skinned individuals, primarily appearing on the palms, soles, and under the nails. Early detection is key due to melanoma's high metastatic potential. Regular self-examinations for skin changes are important for early diagnosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common type of melanoma in dark-skinned individuals is acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM), predominantly found on the palms, soles, and under the nails. Unlike other types, which are typically caused by sun exposure, ALM is not strongly associated with ultraviolet (UV) light. Melanoma is generally characterized by the uncontrolled growth of melanocytes, which produce melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. In dark-skinned people, ALM may appear as asymmetrical brown and black patches with uneven borders and a raised surface, similar to melanomas in other skin types.
Early detection is crucial as melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, highly metastatic and potentially difficult to detect before spreading. It is important for individuals to perform regular self-examinations, looking for the ABCDs (Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, and Diameter) of skin cancer, and to report any suspicious changes to their healthcare provider.