Large cell acanthoma: A benign lesion masquerading as malignant melanoma

Authors

  • Kalina Bridgewater Department of Dermatology, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Newport, Wales, UK Author
  • Laszlo Intzedy Department of Histopathology, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Newport, Wales, UK Author
  • Caroline Mills Department of Dermatology, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Newport, Wales, UK Author
  • Ausama Atwan Department of Dermatology, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Newport, Wales, UK Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25251/d1d0rv27

Keywords:

Dermoscopy, large-cell acanthoma, solar lentigo, seborrheic keratosis

Abstract

We present the case of a 54-year-old woman with a clinically suspected malignant melanoma. Histology, however, revealed the unexpected diagnosis of large cell acanthoma. This is a benign epidermal neoplasm that is poorly understood and underreported in the literature. The clinical and dermoscopic appearance in our patient differs from previously reported cases. We draw attention to this heterogeneous lesion and encourage further investigation into its classification and distinguishing features, which may ultimately inform optimal management for patients.

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Published

01/05/2026