Melanoma
The most dangerous of the common skin cancers. But not every mole is dangerous.
What is a mole?
A mole is also called a melanocytic nevus – yeah, we love complex words. A mole is just an island of melanocytes (cells that make skin pigment) that have grouped together.
What is melanoma?
Melanoma is a cancer that develops from melanocytes. For every 10 skin cells there is a melanocyte. These cells typically produce melanin – a product that makes our skin tone and protects us from UV radiation.
Does Melanoma come from moles?
Not really. Less than 30% of melanoma arise from a mole. Most melanomas arise from normal skin (probably about 75%).
If you have a mole that is different than the rest, is growing faster than the rest, is “growing and arm or a leg”, or you are just worried about, you should book an appointment with a board certified dermatologist to be evaluated.
How deadly is it?
The thicker (deeper) the melanoma, the more deadly it can be. Most melanomas that are diagnosed will be thin and therefore be unlikely to shorten a persons life. Some will be deeper and may pose a great deal of risk. Unfortunately, about 7,000 people will die from melanoma each year in the US.
Source: AAD (https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/types/common/melanoma)
Skin Cancer Foundation (link - https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/melanoma/)
For Physicians only (or patients of Dr. Contestable) – “Moles – Patient Handout”