Lentigo maligna melanoma typically occurs in elderly individuals on sun-exposed areas of the face.

• A. Nodular
• B. Acral lentiginous
• C. Superficial spreading
• D. Lentigo maligna

Answer: (D)

Lentigo maligna melanoma is the melanoma subtype tied to chronic sun damage and facial skin in older adults. It usually starts as a long-standing, flat, pigmented patch on sun-exposed areas of the face (cheek, temple) and may remain in situ for years before invasive disease develops. This pattern—elderly individuals with facial, sun-damaged skin—is why it’s the classic presentation for this type. Other melanoma types have different typical sites and patient patterns: nodular tends to be a rapidly growing nodule, often on the trunk; acral lentiginous appears on palms, soles, or under nails and is not linked to sun exposure; superficial spreading is common and occurs on sun-exposed skin but is not specifically associated with elderly facial skin. Thus, the statement aligns with the characteristic presentation of this melanoma subtype.