Melanoma in black patients.

Melanoma in black patients is uncommon but not rare. This paper reports six cases seen in one general surgeon's practice in Arkansas during a 14-year period. A review of the current literature regarding melanoma in blacks is given.Characteristically, melanoma in blacks is found on the soles of the feet, palms of the hands, or mucous membranes. The tumor has a deadly potential unless it is treated at an early stage; four of the patients reported have died of metastatic disease. A public health program is needed to make physicians and the public aware of the incidence and location of this tumor.