Pigmented macules on palms and soles in Puerto Ricans.
BACKGROUND: One-third of melanomas in Puerto Ricans occur on the skin of palms and soles. This is a study to define the characteristics of melanocytic nevi in those locations. METHODS: A sample of 1,039 patients were randomly examined for pigmented macules on the palms and soles. After informed consent, biopsies of these lesions were done on 67 patients. RESULTS: Among the patients, 13% were found to have pigmented macules on the palms and soles. Volar melanocytic macule was the most frequent lesion. CONCLUSIONS: Melanocytic nevi occur frequently on volar skin. The criteria for removal of these lesions should not be different from those lesions at other locations.