Mucosal Melanoma Fact Sheet
Mucosal Melanoma Fact Sheet There is an urgent need to increase awareness and improve the diagnosis and treatment of mucosal melanoma. KNOW THE FACTS: • M ucosal melanoma is a rare and aggressive cancer, making up about 1–3% of all melanoma cases in the U.S. • It starts in the body’s mucous membranes (moist inner linings). – Head and neck: ~50% of cases – Anorectal area: ~25% – Female genital tract: ~20%
• Early detection is key. Patients and providers should watch for unusual or persistent symptoms in mucosal areas. • T reatment options may include: – Surgery – Radiation therapy – Immunotherapy (ipilimumab, nivolumab, pembrolizumab, relatlimab) – Targeted therapy (if mutations are present) – Clinical trials (access to new treatments) – Tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy (a newer treatment option that may be available for some patients) • T he most common genetic change is a KIT mutation, which affects cell growth and division. – Knowing whether KIT is present can help guide treatment, including targeted therapy. – Other possible mutations: SF3B1, NF1, NRAS, BRAF (less common than in skin melanoma).
– Less common: ~5% (esophagus, gallbladder, bowel, conjunctiva or urethra) • U nlike most melanomas, mucosal
melanoma is not caused by sun exposure. • B ecause it develops in hidden areas, it is often diagnosed late and may not show clear symptoms. Many cases are found at stage IV.
Important Note for Newly Diagnosed Patients It’s natural to want to remove a mucosal melanoma tumor as soon as it’s diagnosed. However, there can be advantages to considering other treatments before surgery, especially if the procedure could effect important bodily functions. Whenever possible, seek care at a specialty center experienced in treating mucosal melanoma early in your treatment course. This helps ensure you learn about all available options before starting therapy.
Find a treatment center today!
Find us online: melanoma.org Call us at: 202.347.9675
1420 K Street NW, 7th Floor Washington, DC 20005
Potential Signs and Symptoms Mucosal melanoma symptoms vary depending on where it begins. If you experience any of the following, speak with your doctor right away: • A suspicious spot or discoloration in your mouth, nasal passages, or vaginal area • S ores that don’t heal • U nexplained bleeding from the rectum or vagina • H emorrhoids that don’t go away or become more painful over time • P ain or discomfort during bowel movements
Mucosal General Information Visit melanoma.org/mucosal-melanoma/
Mucosal Resources Visit melanoma.org/mucosal- melanoma/mucosal-resources/ or scan the QR code below.
Know the Signs, Know the Support
youtube.com/CureMelanoma
Mucosal Awareness Each March, the MRF’s #OutOfTheShadows campaign shines a light on mucosal melanoma by sharing patient voices, key facts and resources to support awareness and early detection.
instagram.com/CureMelanoma
tiktok.com/@curemelanoma
facebook.com/Melanoma.Research.Foundation
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linkedIn.com/Company/Melanoma-Research-Foundation
melanoma.org
UPDATED FEBRUARY 2026
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