|  | Cancer | Skin Cancer

Types of Malignant Melanoma in Children

Skin moles with an atypical appearance may develop into melanomas. Malignant melanoma is the most dangerous kind of skin cancer and can strike children as well as adults. Consult a doctor if you observe a change in your child's moles.

  1. Familial Melanoma

    • According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, children with a family history of malignant melanoma may have familial atypical multiple mole melanoma syndrome, a condition that causes a child to develop atypical moles and increases his risk of developing a malignant melanoma.

    Superficial Spreading Melanomas

    • Superficial spreading melanomas are a common type of melanoma that develop on the top layer of skin and occur most often in young people. This melanoma is a slightly raised or flat patch of skin with irregular borders and areas of different colors such as brown, black or red.

    Nodular Melanoma

    • Nodular melanomas, which quickly become invasive bumps, are usually black in color and grow very aggressively.

    Warning Signs

    • Moles that develop into melanomas are often asymmetric, have irregular borders and a variety of different colors. Melanomas often have a diameter greater than 1/4 inch and a changing appearance.

    Treatment

    • Doctors may surgically remove melanomas and nearby lymph nodes if cancer has spread to them. Children with advanced cases of malignant melanoma may require chemotherapy or other forms of treatment in addition to surgery.

Skin Cancer - Related Articles