Malignant Melanoma
A cancer of the skin
Melanoma is a common cancer and the most serious type of skin cancer. It begins in skin cells called melanocytes. (meh-LAN-o-sites)
Melanoma can spread quickly to other parts of the body so it is very important to diagnose and treat melanoma in its early stages.
Whether you've been diagnosed with melanoma and want to understand what you're facing, or you're just beginning to wonder about a mole on your body, you'll find answers here. What causes melanoma and how is it treated? What does the inside of your skin look like? Who is at risk of melanoma and how can you lower your risk?
Information can help you feel more in control and better prepared to make good decisions.
- Cancer
- A general term for more than 100 different diseases that involve the uncontrolled increase of abnormal new cells. These cells form tumors that can destroy surrounding tissue and spread throughout the body.
- Malignant
- Cancerous; cells that can invade and destroy nearby tissue and spread to other parts of the body.
- Melanocyte
- A cell in the skin and eyes that produces and contains the pigment called melanin.
- Mole
- A cluster of melanocytes and surrounding supportive tissue that usually appears as a tan, brown, or flesh-colored spot on the skin.
Care for Caregivers
Does someone you care about have melanoma? Find resources just for you.
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