Malignant Melanoma It is estimated that this most virulent of all skin cancers develops on the skin of 32,000 Americans annually. And every year an estimated 6,800 Americans will die from melanoma. The melanoma death rate is currently declining, perhaps because patients are seeking help earlier. Melanoma is usually curable in its early stages. Melanoma has its beginnings in melanocytes.
Melanocytes are skin cells that produce the dark protective pigment called melanin.
It is melanin that is responsible for suntanned skin, acting as partial protection against the sun. Melanoma cells usually continue to produce melanin, which accounts for the cancers appearing in mixed shades of tan, brown and black. Melanoma has a tendency to spread and this makes early treatment essential. Melanoma may appear on previously normal skin, but it may also begin in a mole or other dark spot in the skin. For that reason it is important to know the location and appearance of the moles on our bodies so any change will be noticed.