Melanoma. Close-up of a malignant melanoma blemish on the surface of skin. Melanomas are cancerous tumours of melanin producing cells or melanocytes,

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Melanoma. Close-up of a malignant melanoma blemish on the surface of skin. Melanomas are cancerous tumours of melanin producing cells or melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin pigmentation. They usually occur in the skin, but may also appear in the eyes and mucous membranes. They may contain melanin or be free of pigment. Spread of this cancer to the lymph nodes and liver is common. As it is the most serious type of skin cancer, early diagnosis of melanoma is essential. Treatment consists of surgical removal of the tumour; radiotherapy and anticancer drugs may also be necessary.

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Photo credit: © DR P. MARAZZI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
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Keywords: cancer, cancerous, condition, disease, disorder, healthcare, malignancy, malignant, medical, medicine, melanoma, skin