TABLE 1

Differences in Melanoma Subtypes, Their Impact on the Body, and Who Is Most at Risk

SubtypeIncidenceLocationGrowth patternMetastasis potentialSex most at risk
Superficial spreading70%Non–weight-bearing surfaces of footSlow and radialLowWomen
Nodular15%–30%Non–weight-bearing surfaces of footRapid and verticalHighMen
Lentigo maligna4%–10%Anterior lower leg in women; head and trunk in menSlow and radialLowWomen
Acral lentiginous2%–8%Palms, soles, nail bedsRadial at first, then verticalHighWomen