Types of Melanoma

Types of melanoma

Melanoma often looks different from other moles on the skin. This makes it harder to diagnose and can be a sign of more serious cancer. If a mole is changing or looks different, is itchy, bleeds, or ulcerates (has a hole in the top layer of skin that lets tissue below show through) you should see your doctor right away. If you have white or fair skin, you are at a higher risk for melanoma but people with all colors of skin can get it too.

The most common form of melanoma, which accounts for around 70% of all confirmed cases, is called superficial spreading melanoma. It develops in an existing nevus and can spread through the skin to other parts of the body. It may be flat or raised and have irregular borders and be asymmetrical. It may be a variety of colors, including brown, black, red, blue, or tan. Another type of melanoma, lentigo maligna, grows more slowly and is less likely to spread. It may resemble a freckle or be lighter than surrounding moles.

Less common types of melanoma include nodular melanoma and acral lentiginous melanoma. Nodular melanomas are firm, growing lumps that are sometimes the same color as your skin. They can also be red, blue, grey, or tan. Acral lentiginous melanoma, which affects mostly older adults, is less likely to spread than other types of melanoma. It often appears on the palms of your hands and soles of your feet or under your fingernails and toenails. It usually grows slowly and is difficult to diagnose.

Melanoma treatment

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