Melanoma

Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that develops in cells called melanocytes. They make melanin, the pigment found in the skin.

Although melanoma represents less than 1% of the skin cancer cases diagnosed in the United States each year, it results in the most deaths. According to estimates from the National Cancer Institute’s Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program, some 104,960 people will be diagnosed with melanoma in the United States in 2025 and about 8,430 are expected to die from it. The five-year relative survival rate is estimated at 94.7%.

In addition to melanoma, there are also basal cell and squamous cell forms of skin cancer. Learn about these other forms of skin cancer. Melanoma may also occur in mucous membranes—thin, moist layers of tissue that cover surfaces such as the lips. In addition to melanoma of the skin, this form of cancer can also occur in the eye and is called intraocular or ocular melanoma.

When melanoma starts in the skin, the disease is called cutaneous melanoma. Melanoma is more aggressive than basal cell skin cancer or squamous cell skin cancer. Melanoma of the skin can occur anywhere on the body. Unusual moles, exposure to natural sunlight or artificial sunlight (such as from tanning beds) over long periods of time, and family history can affect the risk of melanoma.

Skin Cancer Prevention (PDQ®) Skin Cancer Screening (PDQ®) Melanoma Treatment (PDQ®)

Source: National Cancer Institute