Skin, hair & nailsCancerICD-10 C43
Melanoma
A serious skin cancer arising from pigment cells. Found early it is usually cured by surgery; advanced melanoma has been transformed by immunotherapy.
Condition-specific references are below. Individual claims and this page have not been clinically reviewed. Read about this content.
Causes
- UV-induced DNA damage (BRAF, NRAS mutations)
Risk factors
- Sunburn, especially in childhood
- Sunbed use
- Fair skin, red hair, freckles
- Many or atypical moles
- Family history
- Immunosuppression
Symptoms
- New or changing mole — ABCDE: Asymmetry, irregular Border, uneven Colour, Diameter over 6 mm, Evolving
- Itching or bleeding mole
- Dark streak under a nail
Diagnosis — tests and examinations
- Dermoscopy
- Excision biopsy
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy and scans for staging
Treatment
Medicines and medical treatment
- Immunotherapy (nivolumab, pembrolizumab, ipilimumab)
- Targeted therapy for BRAF-mutant melanoma (dabrafenib + trametinib)
- Adjuvant therapy after surgery for higher-risk disease
Operations and procedures
- Wide local excision
- Lymph node surgery
Self-care, home remedies and lifestyle
- Monthly skin self-checks
- Sun protection
Possible complications
- Spread to lymph nodes, lungs, liver, brain
Prevention
- Avoid sunburn and sunbeds, use SPF 30+, protective clothing, shade
Outlook
Over 95% five-year survival for thin early melanomas.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor promptly for a new, changing, itching or bleeding mole.
Sources and further reading
These sources cover this condition. They have not been checked against every statement on this page.
Related conditions
Educational overview, not medical advice. Treatment varies by person and location. Consult a qualified health professional for diagnosis or care. Read our content and model notes and privacy information.