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Melanoma

Melanoma

Overview

Melanoma is a malignant skin tumor that involves the skin cells that produce pigment (melanin). The risk of melanoma increases with age, but frequently effects young, otherwise healthy people. Melanoma is an aggressive type of cancer that can spread very rapidly.

Review Date 2/15/2024

Updated by: Elika Hoss, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.