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Malignant Melanoma Fact Sheet

Malignant melanoma is a form of skin cancer that can be lethal but is curable if caught early. According to the Physicians' Desktop Reference website, malignant melanoma is the sixth most common cancer in the United States. The cancer is often related to overexposure to the sun.

  1. Who Is Most at Risk

    • Any person of any race can develop malignant melanoma, though cases are uncommon before puberty and for people with dark skin. According to the Physicians' Desktop Reference website, the cancer is most prevalent in people ages 40 to 60 and for people with fair skin. Those who overexpose themselves to ultraviolet light and those with a family history of melanoma have a greater chance of developing malignant melanoma. People with a large number of moles (more than 50) are also at risk. According to SkinCancerNet, those who have a weakened immune system due to diseases such as AIDS and lymphoma are more likely candidates for malignant melanoma.

    Cause

    • Melanoma occurs when the cells responsible for producing skin color are affected. Skin cells grow systemically as healthy new cells make their way out to the skin's surface by forcing out the older cells. The method of skin cell production is created by DNA. However, when the DNA is harmed, new cells may grow wildly and lead to the creation of cancerous cells. Exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun or from tanning beds is closely linked to melanoma.

    What to Look For

    • Melanoma can come in a wide range of forms. A growth can occur on an existing mole or form anywhere on the skin. Melanoma usually appears black or brown and can grow rapidly. Be wary for any alterations to an existing mole such as change in color, form, discomfort, bleeding, or itching. If you see a new mole grow around a previous mole, there is also reason to be concerned.

    Treatment

    • Cure rate for melanoma is most successful when detected early. Malignant melanoma can be removed surgically. Melanoma in small amounts and that is not rooted very deep can most often be taken out by surgery alone. Portions of surrounding skin may also be removed. Skin grafting may be needed if a fair amount of tissue is removed. Tissue is checked to see if cancer has advanced to lymph nodes. If the lymph nodes are affected, they may also need to be taken out. In cases where melanoma has spread throughout the body, treatment is more advanced. The cure rate decreases dramatically and patients will usually undergo chemotherapy or require additional surgery.

    Prevention

    • There are simple things that can be done to reduce your risk for melanoma. Keep yourself safe from ultraviolet rays. Keep your exposure to sunlight to a minimum; especially avoid sunlight when it is the strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Wear long-sleeve clothing, hats and sunglasses when outdoors, and use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Avoid tanning outside or in tanning booths.

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