Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that begins in melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color

. It is considered the most dangerous form of skin cancer because it can grow quickly and has a high potential to spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body, including organs

. Melanoma typically starts on skin exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or tanning devices, which damages the DNA in melanocytes, causing them to grow uncontrollably

. It can also rarely occur in other parts of the body such as the eyes, mouth, or intestines

. Common signs of melanoma include changes in an existing mole or the appearance of a new, unusual-looking pigmented spot on the skin. These changes can involve size, shape, color, or texture

. Melanoma can appear as an irregularly shaped and colored patch or a raised bump and may vary in color from tan, brown, black, red, pink, or even colorless

. There are several types of melanoma, with the most common being:

• Superficial spreading melanoma: grows outward on the skin surface and often starts in an existing mole

• Nodular melanoma: grows more rapidly and deeply, often as a raised bump

• Lentigo maligna melanoma: typically occurs in older adults on sun-damaged skin and grows slowly at first

• Acral lentiginous melanoma: appears on less sun-exposed areas like palms, soles, or under nails, more common in darker-skinned individuals

Early detection and treatment of melanoma are crucial, as early-stage melanoma can often be successfully treated, whereas advanced melanoma has a poorer prognosis

. In summary, melanoma is a serious skin cancer originating from pigment- producing cells, strongly linked to UV exposure, notable for its aggressive nature and potential to spread, but with good outcomes if caught early