Tips for managing your loved one’s healthcare
Learn about melanoma Cutaneous melanoma is a type of cancer that usually starts in a person’s skin. It is the most common type of melanoma. Melanoma happens when a cell called a “melanocyte cell” is damaged.
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Melanocytes are the cells in our skin that carry melanin, which is what gives our skin color, or pigment.
melanocyte cell
melanoma
When these cells are damaged, they can mutate (change) from a melanocyte to a melanoma. This causes them to grow and replicate into new melanoma cells, causing cancer.
Melanoma most often happens in the skin. But it can also happen in other places: l In the eye — called ocular or uveal melanoma l In mucous membranes such as the mouth, sinuses, rectum, anus or in the vaginal area — called mucosal melanoma l Under fingernails or toenails, or on the palms of hands or the bottom of the feet — called acral melanoma Melanoma is the most aggressive type of skin cancer. But with cutaneous melanoma, if found early, it can usually be cured by surgery. If melanoma is not found and treated early, it can spread to lymph nodes (small glands that help fight infection) and organs in the body. If this happens, it can be life-threatening. However, scientists are continuing to find new ways to treat, prevent and diagnose diseases — including melanoma that has spread.
Finding cancer early (called early detection) is so important. It is vital to check your own skin for new or changing moles or other spots every month!
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