Melanoma

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Introduction Signs and symptoms Causes Risk factors

When to seek medical advice Screening and diagnosis Treatment Prevention

Introduction

Melanoma is the most serious and deadly type of skin cancer. Melanoma develops in the cells that produce melanin — the pigment that gives your skin its color. Melanoma can also form in the eyes and, rarely, in internal organs, such as the intestines.

Although melanomas make up the smallest percentage of all skin cancers, they cause the greatest number of deaths. That's because they're more likely to spread to different parts of the body. And the incidence of melanoma is on the rise.

The exact cause of all melanomas isn't clear, but exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or tanning lamps and beds greatly increases the risk of developing melanoma.

Avoiding excessive sun exposure can prevent many melanomas. And knowing the warning signs of skin cancer can help ensure that cancerous changes are detected and treated before they have a chance to spread. Melanoma can be successfully treated if you catch it early.

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Signs and symptoms