Melanoma

The most serious type of skin cancer

Medically reviewed by Dr. Steven Q. Wang, MDLast reviewed

What is Melanoma?

Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. It develops in melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color). While less common than basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, melanoma is more likely to spread to other parts of the body if not caught early.

Early detection is crucial. When found and treated early, melanoma has a very high cure rate.

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Key Topics

Explore these essential topics to better understand your melanoma diagnosis and treatment options:

What to Expect After a Melanoma Diagnosis
Learn about the next steps, timeline, and what happens after diagnosis
Understanding Your Melanoma Pathology Report
Decode the medical terms and numbers in your pathology results
Breslow Depth Explained: How "Thickness" Affects Prognosis
Why melanoma thickness is one of the most important factors
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: What It Means for Melanoma
Understanding when and why this procedure is recommended
What Does My Melanoma Stage Mean?
Plain-language explanation of melanoma staging from 0 to IV
Melanoma Treatment Options by Stage
How treatment plans differ based on your specific stage
How to Find the Right Melanoma Specialist Near You
Tips for locating experienced melanoma doctors and treatment centers
Melanoma Clinical Trials: Should You Consider One?
What clinical trials are, who they're for, and how to find them

Warning Signs: The ABCDEs of Melanoma

A - Asymmetry

One half of the mole doesn't match the other half

B - Border

Edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred

C - Color

Color is not uniform and may include shades of brown, black, pink, red, white, or blue

D - Diameter

Spot is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)

E - Evolving

The mole is changing in size, shape, or color

Risk Factors

  • •Fair skin, light hair, and light eyes
  • •History of sunburns, especially in childhood
  • •Many moles or atypical moles
  • •Family history of melanoma
  • •Weakened immune system
  • •Excessive UV exposure from sun or tanning beds

Prevention

  • •Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
  • •Seek shade during peak sun hours (10am-4pm)
  • •Wear protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats
  • •Avoid tanning beds completely
  • •Perform monthly self-examinations
  • •Get annual skin checks by a dermatologist

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the stage and location of the melanoma. Options may include:

  • •Surgical excision: Removing the melanoma and some surrounding tissue
  • •Immunotherapy: Helping your immune system fight the cancer
  • •Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific gene mutations
  • •Radiation therapy: Using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells

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