Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of cancer that usually begins in the skin. Specifically, it begins in cells called melanocytes. These are cells that produce melanin. Melanin is the pigment that gives skin, hair, and eyes their color.

Melanoma is among the most serious forms of skin cancer. If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with this condition, you may be coping with a lot of difficult questions and concerns — plus the stress of the unknown. Where should you go for care? What are your treatment options?

Where in the body does melanoma begin?
Most melanoma develops in the skin. This is known as skin melanoma or cutaneous melanoma. (“Cutaneous” means “related to the skin.”) The face, scalp, neck, arms, legs, chest, belly, and back are common areas where melanoma develops. Cutaneous melanoma can also start on the bed of a fingernail or toenail.

Other noncutaneous forms of melanoma can begin in the eye or in the membranes lining the eyes, sinuses, anus, and vagina.

What does skin melanoma look like?
The most common sign of melanoma is an unusual mole or spot on your skin that appears to be growing or changing over time. Melanoma often has an irregular or uneven border. It may not resemble other markings on your skin. The spot can be one that you’ve had for years, or it may be a new spot.

What are the causes of melanoma?
Many skin and eye melanomas are thought to occur as a result of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. UV light comes from the sun and indoor tanning beds or booths. Doctors believe that repeated exposure to UV rays can damage the DNA in melanin (the skin’s pigment-producing cells), giving rise to cancer cells.

However, not every melanoma is linked to a history of sun exposure or tanning bed use. Researchers are still working to understand the causes of these rare cancers.

What is the best treatment for melanoma?
The best treatment for melanoma varies from person to person. Someone with a very early-stage melanoma may require surgery alone to cure the disease.