Malignant melanoma is a tumor of melanocytic origin, with an increasing incidence and mortality rate. More than a half of cases appear on normal skin. In women, it is usually located on the extremities, and in men more often on the torso. Risk factors include: age, sex, race, nevus (moles) genetics, exposure to sunlight, and geographic location.
Clinically, it may take on different forms, sizes, and colors, and it is thus essential that any lesion, which acutely shows up, whether dark or not, and rapidly increases in size or changes shape or size should be examined.
Anyone with a history of malignant melanoma in the family should be rigorously and periodically examined by a dermatologist.
Sun protection and good habits with regard to sun exposure are fundamental.
