cancer, male breast

cancer, melanoma A skin cancer that begins in cells called melanocytes, which normally grow together to form benign (noncancerous) moles. A change in size, shape, or color of a mole can be a sign of melanoma. Melanoma can be cured if it is detected early. If it is not detected early, however, it may spread to other areas of the body, and that can cause death. Diagnosis is confirmed with a biopsy of the abnormal skin. Sun exposure can cause skin damage, which can in turn lead to melanoma. See also melanoma.