Definition & Prevalence

Definition
Melanoma: malignant skin cancer with 4 subtypes:
• Superficial spreading melanoma (70% cases): develops from benign mole, common in
sun-exposed sites
• Nodular melanoma (10-15% cases): black/blue/red/pink raised firm lesions
• Lentigo maligna melanoma: occurs in sun-exposed sites, typically >60 years
• Acral lentiginous melanoma: occurs on palms, soles, under nails, mouth, eyes, and
tongue; more common in Asian/African populations
Prevalence
5th most common cancer in the UK