The primary cause of melanoma is ultraviolet light (UV) exposure in those with low levels of the skin pigment melanin. Changes in a mole that can indicate melanoma include an increase in size, irregular edges, change in color, itchiness, or skin breakdown. About 25% of melanomas develop from moles. In women, they most commonly occur on the legs, while in men, they most commonly occur on the back. Melanomas typically occur in the skin, but may rarely occur in the mouth, intestines, or eye ( uveal melanoma). Melanoma, also redundantly known as malignant melanoma, is a type of cancer that develops from the pigment-producing cells known as melanocytes. Seborrheic keratosis, lentigo, blue nevus, dermatofibroma įive-year survival rates in US 99% (localized), 25% (disseminated)
Ultraviolet light (Sun, tanning devices) įamily history, many moles, poor immune function Mole that is increasing in size, has irregular edges, change in color, itchiness, or skin breakdown.
