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Define Metastatic Malignant Melanoma

Metastatic malignant melanoma is one the most serious forms of skin cancer. Skin is the body's largest organ. The chances of melanoma increase with age, although it can occur at any stage in life.

  1. Melanocytes

    • Metastatic malignant melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer. It forms from cells in the skin called melanocytes. These cells are found in the lower part of the epidermis and are responsible for skin pigmentation.

    Malignant Cells

    • When clusters of melanocytes (moles) become malignant, it is called melanoma. Malignant means it is cancerous.

    Who It Affects

    • Melanoma occurs in both men and women. For men, it usually starts on the head, neck and between the shoulders and hips. Women are usually affected on their legs.

    Spread of the Cancer

    • Cancer can spread to the lymph nodes, and from there to other parts of the body. When it spreads to other organs, the cancer cells are still called melanoma cells, and the overall disease is called metastatic melanoma.

    Treatments

    • Treatments for metastatic malignant melanoma include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, biotherapy/immunotherapy and local hypothermia. No matter what treatment is used to get rid of melanoma, it is important not to ignore it.

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