A case-control study of melanomas of the soles and palms (Australia and Scotland)

Abstract

Objectives: Because the factors that influence risk of acral melanomas on the soles and palms in White populations are unknown, we investigated these in a multi-center case-control study. Methods: Cases of melanoma of the feet and hands diagnosed from 1987-93 in persons aged over 18 years were ascertained in eastern Australia and western Scotland. There were 275 cases of melanoma on the soles and palms matched to 496 controls (selected from the electoral roll) in Australia, and 36 cases matched to 72 controls (nominated by general practitioners) in Scotland. Results: Acral melanoma was strongly associated with high total body nevus counts (adjusted relative risk [RR] = 6.3, 95% confidence in..