Know Your Melanomas-The Basic Types

There are actually different types of Melanoma.

Superficial spreading melanoma accounts for 60-70% of all melanomas. This is the most common and this particular type travels along the very top layers of skin before penetrating to deeper levels. It is generally flat, can have various colors and may present with irregular boarders.

Nodular melanomas are the second most common type of melanomas and they are responsible for 15-30% of melanoma cases. It will generally present as a black lump appearing on the arms, legs and trunk of the elderly and the scalps of men.

Lentigo melanoma is another type. It appears similar to the superficial type, and accounts for 5%of the melanomas on the elderly and generally appears on sun damaged arms,faces and ears.

Another type is acral lentiginous melanoma. It usually appears under the nails or on the soles of the feet or palms of the hands. it is the most common form of melanoma found in Asians and Afro-Americans and accounts for 5% of all melanomas, it is least common among Caucasians.

Desmoplastic melanoma is a very rare, very aggressive, and the hardest to diagnosis. It usually appears on the neck and head of elderly patients.

The most important point to come away with is, they are all Melanomas, they all need examination from a physician and they will all need follow-up! Learn to become sun-savvy and know your moles!