Melanoma

What is Melanoma Skin Cancer?

"Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that begins in cells known as melanocytes. While it is less common than basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), melanoma is more dangerous because of its ability to spread to other organs more rapidly if it is not treated at an early stage." (Visit Melanoma Overview, Skin Cancer Foundation, for more information).

Different Types of Melanoma:

"Melanoma types are based on the way a sample of cells from a tumor looks under a microscope. These cells are collected during a biopsy or surgery. Determining the type is important because it can help your doctor understand where the melanoma is likely to grow and how quickly.

Four Main Types of Skin Melanoma
There are four main types of skin melanoma.

Superficial spreading melanoma is the most common type of melanoma. It starts off by growing along the top layer of the skin. Eventually, it can penetrate deeper into the skin.
Nodular melanoma is the second most common type of melanoma. It can be aggressive because it usually grows quickly. Its most common feature is a bump or node that rises above the skin’s surface and that is firm to the touch.
Lentigo maligna melanoma tends to develop on the face, scalp, or neck. It usually affects older people with very sun-damaged skin.
Acral lentiginous melanoma is a rare condition that affects people of all races and backgrounds. It is the most common form of melanoma in people of African and Asian descent. It can develop on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet as well as under the toenails and fingernails." (Visit Types of Melanoma, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, for more information).

Types of Treatments

"Early-stage melanomas can often be treated with surgery alone, but more advanced cancers often require other treatments. Sometimes more than one type of treatment is used."

Common Treatments

Visit Treating Melanoma Skin Cancer, American Cancer Society, for more information

Caring For a Loved One with Melanoma

Being a Caregiver to a Loved One with Skin CancerSkinCancer.net

SkinCancer.net offers advice on researching wisely, taking part in your loved one’s healthcare team, journaling, practicing self-care, and maintaining communication with your loved one, friends, and family.

Patient and Caregiver Support GroupsIMPACT Melanoma

IMPACT Melanoma hosts a variety of support groups for patients and caregivers to address fears and uncertainty, increase opportunities to talk with others who share a melanoma diagnosis, enhance knowledge of melanoma and treatment options and identify coping strategies to address the emotional challenges that people may experience when diagnosed with cancer.

What You Need to Know as a Melanoma CaregiverAIM At Melanoma Foundation

This article gives suggestions on managing your role as a caregiver, such as educating yourself about your loved one’s melanoma diagnosis, advocating for their care, and enlisting support. They also include a robust list of resources for caregivers, such as Peer Connect, CaringBridge, and a comprehensive handbook of caregiving practices.

Family & Caregiver StoriesMelanoma Research Alliance

"No one has melanoma alone." This page shares caregivers’ personal stories about their experiences supporting their loved one throughout their cancer journey.

Caring For a Loved One with Melanoma

Being a Caregiver to a Loved One with Skin CancerSkinCancer.net

SkinCancer.net offers advice on researching wisely, taking part in your loved one’s healthcare team, journaling, practicing self-care, and maintaining communication with your loved one, friends, and family.

Patient and Caregiver Support GroupsIMPACT Melanoma

IMPACT Melanoma hosts a variety of support groups for patients and caregivers to address fears and uncertainty, increase opportunities to talk with others who share a melanoma diagnosis, enhance knowledge of melanoma and treatment options and identify coping strategies to address the emotional challenges that people may experience when diagnosed with cancer.

What You Need to Know as a Melanoma CaregiverAIM At Melanoma Foundation

This article gives suggestions on managing your role as a caregiver, such as educating yourself about your loved one’s melanoma diagnosis, advocating for their care, and enlisting support. They also include a robust list of resources for caregivers, such as Peer Connect, CaringBridge, and a comprehensive handbook of caregiving practices.

Family & Caregiver StoriesMelanoma Research Alliance

"No one has melanoma alone." This page shares caregivers’ personal stories about their experiences supporting their loved one throughout their cancer journey.