melanoma

melanoma The most dangerous form of skin cancer, a malignancy of melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment in the skin. Melanoma is most common in people with fair skin, but it can occur in people with all skin colors. Most melanomas present as dark, mole-like spots that spread and, unlike moles, have irregular borders. The tendency toward melanoma may be inherited, and the risk increases with overexposure to the sun and sunburn. The use of sunscreens can decrease the risk of developing melanoma and other skin cancers. Malignant melanoma is classified into four clinical types: acral lentiginous melanoma, superficial spreading melanoma, nodular melanoma, and lentigo maligna melanoma. Anyone who has concern about an unusual mole-like spot should see a physician. Melanoma is highly curable when detected early.