Diseases
melanoma
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, develops in the cells (melanocytes) that produce melanin — the pigment that gives your skin its color. Melanoma can also form in your eyes and, rarely, inside your body, such as in your nose or throat.
Symptoms
- a change in an existing mole
- the development of a new pigmented or unusual-looking growth on your skin
- melanoma doesn't always begin as a mole.
- it can also occur on otherwise normal-appearing skin.
Causes
- melanoma occurs when something goes wrong in the melanin-producing cells (melanocytes) that give color to the skin.
Risk factors
- excessive ultraviolet (uv) light exposure.
- fair skin. having less pigment (melanin) in your skin means you have less protec
- a history of sunburn.
Diagnosis
- physical exam.
- removing a sample of tissue for testing (biopsy).
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is melanoma?
Melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, develops in the cells (melanocytes) that produce melanin — the pigment that gives your skin its color. Melanoma can also form in your eyes and, rarely, inside your body, such as in your nose or throat.
What are the symptoms of melanoma?
a change in an existing mole, the development of a new pigmented or unusual-looking growth on your skin, melanoma doesn't always begin as a mole., it can also occur on otherwise normal-appearing skin.
What causes melanoma?
melanoma occurs when something goes wrong in the melanin-producing cells (melanocytes) that give color to the skin.
Which medicines are used for melanoma?
aldesleukin, atezolizumab, dacarbazine, interferon alfa 2b, ipilimumab, nivolumab, peginterferon alfa 2b, pembrolizumab, vinblastine
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