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Overview of melanoma

Melanoma check Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that begins in the cells that give your skin colour, known as melanocytes. These cells clump together to make the brown spots we commonly call moles.

Melanoma can develop in an existing mole or can start as a new spot.

Most melanoma are caused by ultra-violet (UV) light from the sun or from other sources such as sunbeds.

New Zealand has a higher rate of melanoma than most other countries. It can happen in adults of any age, but is rare in children.

Melanoma is serious. If it's not treated early, it can spread around the body and become life-threatening.

Risk of melanoma

You could be more likely to get melanoma if you have:

many moles (more than 50 to100)
large moles
unusually coloured or shaped moles
a previous history of melanoma
a strong family history of melanoma
fair skin that has been severely or repeatedly sunburned.

Diagnosing melanoma

Melanoma is usually found when you check your own skin for new or changing moles, freckles or spots. Use the ABCDEs of melanoma as a useful guideline for the changes to look for.

Your GP will check your skin for any concerning spots. They may use a magnifying instrument known as a dermatoscope.

If concerned, they will take a sample of the spot or remove all of it so it can be looked at under a microscope.

Treating melanoma

Removing the melanoma is the first step.

Depending on how severe the melanoma is you may need further surgery.

If your melanoma has spread you may need drug treatment.