Back to Results
Melanoma
Urgent
Melanoma is a type of cancer that begins in melanocytes, the cells that produce the pigment melanin. It commonly develops in the skin but can occur in other tissues containing pigment-producing cells. A melanoma may appear as a new unusual spot or as a change in an existing mole, including changes in its size, shape, border, color, or appearance.
Body System
Skin Hair & Nails
When to Seek Medical Attention
Melanoma requires prompt medical evaluation when a new or changing skin lesion is noticed. Seek assessment for a spot that is asymmetrical, has an irregular border, contains multiple colors, is changing in size or appearance, or bleeds or does not heal. Emergency care is generally not required unless there is an acute complication such as uncontrolled bleeding or severe illness.
Symptoms
2
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Melanoma is a type of cancer that begins in melanocytes, the cells that produce the pigment melanin. It commonly develops in the skin but can occur in other tissues containing pigment-producing cells. A melanoma may appear as a new unusual spot or as a change in an existing mole, including changes in its size, shape, border, color, or appearance.
Symptoms 2
Persistent Hoarseness
Sleep Paralysis
Causes 1
Melanoma develops when melanocytes acquire genetic changes that cause abnormal growth and survival. The exact cause of an individual melanoma is not always known. Ultraviolet radiation from sunlight or tanning devices can damage skin cells and contributes to melanoma risk. Melanoma can also arise from an existing mole or develop on apparently normal skin.
Genetics
Risk Factors
Risk factors include exposure to ultraviolet radiation, especially repeated sun exposure and severe blistering sunburns, use of tanning beds, fair skin that burns easily, many or atypical moles, and a personal or family history of melanoma. Certain inherited genetic conditions and weakened immunity can also increase risk. Melanoma can occur in people of all skin colors.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis of melanoma begins with examination of a suspicious skin lesion and assessment of changes in its appearance. Features such as asymmetry, an irregular border, uneven color, increasing size, or evolution over time may raise concern. The diagnosis is confirmed by removing all or part of the suspicious tissue and examining it under a microscope. Additional tests may be used to determine whether the cancer has spread.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Limiting exposure to ultraviolet radiation can reduce melanoma risk
Avoid tanning beds, seek shade, use protective clothing, and take precautions when spending time in strong sunlight
People with many or atypical moles or a personal or family history of melanoma should discuss appropriate skin examinations with a healthcare professional
Report new or changing skin lesions promptly
Prevention Guidance
Limiting exposure to ultraviolet radiation can reduce melanoma risk. Avoid tanning beds, seek shade, use protective clothing, and take precautions when spending time in strong sunlight. People with many or atypical moles or a personal or family history of melanoma should discuss appropriate skin examinations with a healthcare professional. Report new or changing skin lesions promptly.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Fresh Fruits
Rich in antioxidants
Leafy Vegetables
Support overall health
Whole Grains
Balanced nutrition
Foods to Avoid
Processed Foods
Limit intake
Alcohol
Limit consumption
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Melanoma is a serious skin cancer arising from pigment-producing cells.
Excess UV exposure and genetic factors increase risk.
Yes, melanoma can spread to other organs if untreated.
Diagnosis is confirmed through biopsy.
Sun protection and regular skin checks help prevention.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.