Melanoma

3 min read·Last updated: 2026-02-08·Reviewed by Dr. Julia Tzu, MD, FAAD, FACMS

At a Glance

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, developing from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells that give skin its color. While melanoma accounts for only about 1% of all skin cancers, it causes the majority of skin cancer deaths due to its tendency to spread to other parts of the body. Approximately 70-80% of melanomas arise on seemingly normal skin, while 20-30% develop from existing moles. When detected early (before spreading), melanoma has a 99% five-year survival rate, emphasizing the critical importance of regular skin examinations and awareness of the ABCDE warning signs.

Melanoma accounts for only about 1% of skin cancers but causes the majority of skin cancer deaths[4]
Early-stage melanoma detected before spreading has a 99% five-year survival rate[2]
Approximately 70-80% of melanomas arise on normal-appearing skin rather than existing moles[2]
Approximately 86% of melanomas are caused by solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation[2]

Symptoms

Asymmetrical mole (one half differs from the other)
Border irregularity (ragged, notched, or blurred edges)
Color variation (multiple shades of brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue)
Diameter larger than 6 millimeters (pencil eraser size)
Evolving size, shape, color, or symptoms
Mole that looks different from others (ugly duckling sign)
New dark spot that stands out from other spots
Itching, bleeding, or crusting of a mole

When to Seek Professional Care

Any mole showing ABCDE warning signs
A new mole appearing after age 30
A mole that looks different from all your other moles
Any mole that is changing in size, shape, or color
Bleeding, itching, or crusting of a mole
Dark streak under a fingernail or toenail

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Causes

UV radiation damage to melanocyte DNA
Genetic mutations (BRAF, NRAS, and others)
Cumulative sun exposure
Severe sunburns, especially in childhood
Inherited genetic factors
Indoor tanning bed use

How We Can Help

We offer a service to help manage this condition: Mohs Surgery.

Prognosis

Early-stage melanoma (localized) has 99% five-year survival rate
Regional spread to lymph nodes has 74% five-year survival
Distant metastasis has 35% five-year survival
Early detection is critical for best outcomes
Regular follow-up is essential to detect recurrence or new melanomas

Frequently Asked Questions

What is melanoma?

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, developing from melanocytes, the cells that produce skin pigment. While less common than other skin cancers, it's more dangerous because it can spread to other organs. When caught early, melanoma is highly treatable with a 99% five-year survival rate.

What are the ABCDE warning signs of melanoma?

The ABCDE rule helps identify potential melanomas: Asymmetry (one half differs from the other), Border irregularity (ragged or blurred edges), Color variation (multiple colors in one mole), Diameter larger than 6mm, and Evolving (changes in size, shape, color, or symptoms). Any mole meeting these criteria should be evaluated promptly.

When should I see a dermatologist about a mole?

See a dermatologist immediately if a mole shows any ABCDE warning signs, if you notice a new mole after age 30, if a mole looks different from all your other moles, or if any mole is changing, bleeding, or itching. Early detection can be life-saving, as melanoma survival rates drop significantly once it spreads.

How is melanoma treated?

Treatment depends on the stage. Early melanoma is typically removed surgically with wide excision. More advanced cases may require sentinel lymph node biopsy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy for specific genetic mutations, or radiation. Treatment plans are individualized based on tumor characteristics and staging.

How serious is melanoma?

Melanoma is the most dangerous skin cancer because it can spread to lymph nodes and vital organs. However, when detected early (before spreading), the five-year survival rate is 99%. This drops to 74% if it reaches lymph nodes and 35% for distant spread. Regular skin checks enable early detection when treatment is most effective.

How can I reduce my risk of melanoma?

Reduce risk by protecting skin from UV radiation: use SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, avoid sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., wear protective clothing, and never use tanning beds. Perform monthly skin self-exams using the ABCDE criteria and get annual professional skin checks, especially if you have risk factors.

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