Cutaneous melanoma is the most common form of melanoma. It originates in cells called melanocytes, which produce melanin, the pigment responsible for giving color to our skin, hair, and eyes. It is the most aggressive form of skin cancer and can spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.
Cutaneous melanoma typically develops on areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun, but it can also occur in areas that are not regularly exposed to sunlight. It can appear as a new mole or arise from an existing mole or skin growth. Melanoma can occur in people of all skin tones, although it is more common in individuals with fair skin.
The signs and symptoms of cutaneous melanoma can vary, but the most common signs and symptoms are called the ABCDE’s of Melanoma:
It's important to note that not all melanomas follow these specific characteristics, and some may not exhibit any symptoms at all. Regular self-examinations of your skin and routine check-ups with a dermatologist are crucial for early detection and treatment. If you notice any concerning changes on your skin, it's best to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation.
Cutaneous melanoma is the most common form of melanoma and the fifth most common cancer diagnosed in the United States. In 2023, an estimated 97,610 people in the United States are expected to be diagnosed with melanoma. The rate of new cases of melanoma has more than doubled in the last 30 years.
Cutaneous melanoma can be a serious and potentially life-threatening form of skin cancer if not detected and treated early. The seriousness of cutaneous melanoma depends on various factors, including the stage of the cancer at diagnosis, the thickness and depth of the tumor, and whether it has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body.
Melanoma has the potential to metastasize (spread) to other organs, such as the lungs, liver, brain, or bones. Once it spreads, it becomes more difficult to treat.
However, it's important to note that early detection and treatment significantly improve the chances of successful outcomes. When melanoma is diagnosed at an early stage, before it has spread, the five-year survival rate is very high.
Cutaneous melanoma can affect people of all ages and ethnicities, but certain factors increase the risk of developing this type of skin cancer. Here are some factors that contribute to the development of cutaneous melanoma:
It's important to note that while these factors can increase the risk of developing cutaneous melanoma, anyone can develop this type of skin cancer.
Melanoma forms when something goes wrong in the pigment producing-cells called melanocytes that give your skin color. When the DNA in these cells become damaged, they may begin to grow out of control.
Experts believe that approximately 90% of cutaneous melanomas are caused by ultraviolet radiation from the sun or indoor tanning devices. They can tell that by measuring the type and amount of DNA damage in many melanoma tumor samples.
The treatment of cutaneous melanoma depends on various factors, including the stage of the cancer, the location and size of the tumor, and the individual's overall health. The primary treatment options for cutaneous melanoma include:
In addition to these treatment strategies, patients may also receive radiation or chemotherapy in select situations.
Melanoma treatment plans are highly individualized, and your specific treatment plan will depend on the unique characteristics of your melanoma. The treatment team, which may include dermatologists, surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists, will work together to determine the most appropriate treatment strategy for you.
Superficial spreading melanoma is the most common type of cutaneous melanoma. It will slowly grow horizontally across the outermost layer of skin before beginning to invade into deeper layers of the skin.
Nodular melanoma is the second most common type of cutaneous melanoma. It is also the most aggressive form of melanoma. Nodular melanoma can quickly invade the deepest layers of the skin. Nodular melanoma generally looks like a quickly growing blue or black lump on the skin.
Lentigo maligna, sometimes referred to as melanoma in situ – or stage 0 melanoma, is the most treatable form of melanoma. When it begins to invade further into the skin, it becomes the much more serious lentigo maligna melanoma. Both look like flat, or slightly raised, brown patches on the skin. They can be easily confused for age spots.
Amelanotic melanoma does not look like other types of melanoma. Instead of dark or even black spots on the body, amelanotic melanoma presents as a faint pinkish-looking mark on the skin. Because of this, amelanotic melanoma can be harder to detect.
