Malignant melanoma is a serious type of skin cancer. It’s also called cutaneous melanoma. This comes from the Latin word ‘cutis’, which means ‘of the skin’—so in other words we’re talking about ‘cancer of the skin’.
Melanoma starts in the melanocytes. These are the cells found in the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis). Their job is to make melanin—the pigment that gives your skin its natural colour. Over-exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or tanning beds damages the skin. You’ll notice it tan, darken or maybe even burn. This triggers changes in the melanocytes, which can lead to mutations and cause the cells to multiply uncontrollably and become cancerous.
Alongside excessive sun exposure and sunburn, there are many other factors that can increase your risk of skin cancer. Take a look at the seven key risk factors for melanoma and other skin cancers here.
While most people are familiar with melanoma, they may not be aware that there are different types of melanoma cancer. There are actually four main types of malignant melanoma. (Plus a few other types, but these are *very* rare.) Keep on reading to find out more about each of these melanoma types.