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Melanoma is a malignant tumor originating from melanocytes of the skin, and it can also arise in mucosal sites and the uveal tract of the eye. It is characterized by marked cytologic atypia and a high likelihood of early metastasis, making it the most aggressive form of skin cancer.
1. Superficial spreading melanoma
The most common subtype; it typically shows an initial radial (horizontal) growth phase followed by vertical invasion.
2. Nodular melanoma
Predominantly vertical growth, with strong aggressiveness and rapid progression.
3. Lentigo maligna melanoma
More common on the sun-damaged facial skin of older adults and associated with long-term UV exposure.
4. Acral lentiginous melanoma
More common in Asian populations; frequently occurs on the palms, soles, and nail apparatus.
5. WHO updated classification (2022)
In addition to histopathology, greater emphasis is placed on genomic features for classification.
1. Ultraviolet exposure
Intermittent intense sun exposure is a well-established risk factor; sunburns in childhood are particularly hazardous.
2. Skin phenotype
Fair skin, light hair/eyes, and a tendency to sunburn are associated with a significantly higher risk.
3. Nevus burden and atypical features
Multiple nevi and dysplastic nevus syndrome increase melanoma risk.
4. Genetic factors
Mutations such as CDKN2A can lead to familial melanoma predisposition.
5. Immunosuppression
Immunosuppressed individuals (e.g., post-organ transplantation) have a several-fold increased risk.
6. Age and sex
Incidence increases with age; prognosis is relatively poorer in men.
1. Sun protection
Avoid intense sunlight, use broad-spectrum sunscreen, and prioritize sun protection in children.
2. Regular self-examination
Perform monthly full-body skin checks and apply the ABCDE rule; seek medical evaluation promptly for suspicious lesions.
3. Professional screening
High-risk individuals should undergo regular dermatologic examinations; early detection markedly improves outcomes.
4. Genetic counseling
Individuals with a family history should consider genetic counseling/testing to develop personalized surveillance plans.
5. Healthy lifestyle
Maintain a balanced diet and healthy body weight, avoid smoking and excessive alcohol, and support immune health.
6. Public education
Improve public awareness of risk factors and adopt effective preventive measures.
Jinshazhou Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine emphasizes that melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer, with a rising global incidence and substantial health impact. Because melanoma can metastasize early, delayed diagnosis is associated with a poor prognosis. Sun protection, self-examination, and early diagnosis are central to prevention and control. Immunotherapy and targeted therapy have significantly prolonged survival in advanced disease, and high-risk populations should prioritize prevention and regular screening.
Melanoma is a malignant tumor originating from melanocytes of the skin, and it can also arise in mucosal sites and the uveal tract of the eye. It is characterized by marked cytologic atypia and a high likelihood of early metastasis, making it the most aggressive form of skin cancer.
1. Superficial spreading melanoma
The most common subtype; it typically shows an initial radial (horizontal) growth phase followed by vertical invasion.
2. Nodular melanoma
Predominantly vertical growth, with strong aggressiveness and rapid progression.
3. Lentigo maligna melanoma
More common on the sun-damaged facial skin of older adults and associated with long-term UV exposure.
4. Acral lentiginous melanoma
More common in Asian populations; frequently occurs on the palms, soles, and nail apparatus.
5. WHO updated classification (2022)
In addition to histopathology, greater emphasis is placed on genomic features for classification.
1. Ultraviolet exposure
Intermittent intense sun exposure is a well-established risk factor; sunburns in childhood are particularly hazardous.
2. Skin phenotype
Fair skin, light hair/eyes, and a tendency to sunburn are associated with a significantly higher risk.
3. Nevus burden and atypical features
Multiple nevi and dysplastic nevus syndrome increase melanoma risk.
4. Genetic factors
Mutations such as CDKN2A can lead to familial melanoma predisposition.
5. Immunosuppression
Immunosuppressed individuals (e.g., post-organ transplantation) have a several-fold increased risk.
6. Age and sex
Incidence increases with age; prognosis is relatively poorer in men.
1. Sun protection
Avoid intense sunlight, use broad-spectrum sunscreen, and prioritize sun protection in children.
2. Regular self-examination
Perform monthly full-body skin checks and apply the ABCDE rule; seek medical evaluation promptly for suspicious lesions.
3. Professional screening
High-risk individuals should undergo regular dermatologic examinations; early detection markedly improves outcomes.
4. Genetic counseling
Individuals with a family history should consider genetic counseling/testing to develop personalized surveillance plans.
5. Healthy lifestyle
Maintain a balanced diet and healthy body weight, avoid smoking and excessive alcohol, and support immune health.
6. Public education
Improve public awareness of risk factors and adopt effective preventive measures.
Jinshazhou Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine emphasizes that melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer, with a rising global incidence and substantial health impact. Because melanoma can metastasize early, delayed diagnosis is associated with a poor prognosis. Sun protection, self-examination, and early diagnosis are central to prevention and control. Immunotherapy and targeted therapy have significantly prolonged survival in advanced disease, and high-risk populations should prioritize prevention and regular screening.