Lentigo maligna is a melanocytic neoplasm occurring on sun-exposed skin, usually on the head and neck, of middle-aged and elderly patients. The unidentified nature and potentially large size of lesions pose significant diagnostic and treatment challenges. This article describes diagnostic approaches for lentigo maligna. Lentigo maligna most commonly presents in the head and neck region of elderly patients, with the highest incidence in the seventh and eighth decades of life.
It is slow-growing and usually progresses in a prolonged radial growth phase before entering a vertical growth phase. Patients typically present with a chief complaint of a new, asymptomatic pigmented macule or patch on the head or neck region or a freckle that has changed in size, shape, or color. When approaching patients with a new diagnosis of lentigo maligna, it is preferable to give them consultation before…
