Melanomu

Melanomu is a term that refers to a type of skin cancer originating in melanocytes, the pigment‑producing cells of the skin, hair, and eyes. It most commonly presents as a new or changing mole, but can also arise in areas where there is no obvious mole. The disease is characterized by mutations that lead to uncontrolled cell growth, with frequent involvement of the BRAF, NRAS, and KIT genes. In advanced stages, melanomu can metastasize to lymph nodes, lungs, liver, brain, and other organs, making early detection and treatment critical.

Risk factors for melanomu include extensive ultraviolet light exposure, fair skin, a high number of nevi, a family history of melanoma, and certain genetic syndromes such as familial atypical mole and melanoma syndrome and xeroderma pigmentosum. Other contributing elements are thin skin, blue or gray eyes, and a history of blistering sunburns in childhood. Population studies show that melanoma incidence is higher in regions with intense sun exposure and where there is greater UV radiation, but melanomu also occurs in individuals with limited sun exposure, especially those with genetic predispositions.

Diagnostic evaluation is usually performed through a skin examination followed by dermoscopy or biopsy. The histologic pattern is classified into superficial spreading, nodular, lentigo maligna, and acral lentiginous subtypes, each with distinct prognostic implications. Treatment usually combines surgical excision, sentinel lymph node biopsy, and, in advanced disease, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or chemotherapy depending on molecular markers. The advent of immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as anti‑PD-1 antibodies, has significantly improved survival rates for metastatic melanomu, further highlighting the importance of ongoing research and early detection strategies.