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CancerICD-10: C43About 100,000 new cases diagnosed annually in the United States

Melanoma

Also known as: Malignant Melanoma, Cutaneous Melanoma

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, developing from the pigment-producing cells known as melanocytes. Although it accounts for only about 1% of skin cancers, melanoma causes the majority of skin cancer deaths due to its tendency to spread to other parts of the body. Early detection and surgical removal dramatically improve survival rates.

Symptoms

New or changing mole with asymmetric shape
Mole with irregular or scalloped borders
Uneven color including shades of brown, black, red, or blue
Mole diameter larger than 6 mm (pencil eraser size)
Evolving size, shape, or color of a skin lesion
Itching or tenderness in a mole
Bleeding or oozing from a mole
Darkened skin area not associated with a mole

Causes

  • DNA damage to melanocytes, often from UV radiation
  • Cumulative sun exposure and sunburn history
  • Genetic mutations including BRAF, NRAS, and CDKN2A
  • Use of tanning beds and artificial UV light

Risk Factors

  • Fair skin, light hair, and light-colored eyes
  • History of severe or blistering sunburns
  • Family history of melanoma
  • Large number of moles (more than 50)
  • Weakened immune system
  • Previous melanoma diagnosis

Diagnosis

  • Full-body skin examination by a dermatologist
  • Dermoscopy (magnified evaluation of skin lesions)
  • Excisional biopsy of suspicious lesion with pathology review
  • Sentinel lymph node biopsy for staging
  • Imaging studies (CT, PET, MRI) for metastatic evaluation

Treatment

  • Surgical excision with appropriate margins
  • Immunotherapy (pembrolizumab, nivolumab, ipilimumab)
  • Targeted therapy for BRAF-mutant melanoma (dabrafenib, trametinib)
  • Radiation therapy for select cases
  • Clinical trials for advanced disease

Prevention

  • Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
  • Avoid tanning beds and excessive sun exposure
  • Wear protective clothing, hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses
  • Perform monthly skin self-exams
  • Get annual professional skin exams, especially with risk factors

When to See a Doctor

  • Any new mole or skin lesion that changes in size, shape, or color
  • A mole that bleeds, itches, or becomes painful
  • A dark streak under a fingernail or toenail
  • A sore that does not heal within a few weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Psoriasis

Dermatological

Rosacea

Dermatological

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Content reviewed against peer-reviewed medical literature and clinical guidelines. Read our editorial standards.