# When a Freckle May Not Be a Freckle: A Case of Lentigo Maligna

## TL;DR

A case study shows how a seemingly benign freckle was actually a type of melanoma, emphasizing the need for dermoscopy in skin lesion evaluation.

## Contribution

Highlights the diagnostic value of dermoscopy in identifying lentigo maligna that appears clinically benign.

## Key findings

- A 51-year-old male's lesion appeared benign but was diagnosed as lentigo maligna via biopsy.
- Dermoscopy revealed asymmetric pigmentation, indicating malignancy not visible in clinical inspection.
- The case underscores the importance of dermoscopy in accurate skin cancer diagnosis.

## Abstract

Lentigo maligna (LM) is a subtype of melanoma that typically arises in chronically sun-exposed skin. A case of LM arising on the right malar cheek of a 51-year-old male patient is presented herein. Clinically, the patient’s lesion appeared benign and lacked overt features of malignancy. Dermoscopic evaluation, however, revealed asymmetric pigmentation concerning for malignancy. A biopsy was subsequently performed, confirming the diagnosis of LM. This case highlights the importance of incorporating dermoscopy into the routine evaluation of pigmented lesions, as reliance on clinical inspection alone may result in misclassification and inappropriate management.