What is melanoma?

Melanoma is a cancer of the melanocytes (cells that produce pigment giving our skin its natural colour). Melanoma is by far the most serious and dangerous type of skin cancer.

A melanoma may start in, or close to, a mole. When it spreads, the cancer extends downwards from the epidermis and can invade healthy tissue such as nearby lymph nodes and get into your bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream or lymphatic system, the cancer can easily spread to other parts of the body. That's why, even if a melanoma is cut out, the cancer can reappear months or even years later, often in your lungs, liver and brain.

While survival rates for melanoma are high in Australia, the outcome very much depends on how deep the cancer has grown. A melanoma need only be 1mm deep to get into your bloodstream and spread. So it's important that a melanoma is detected early and removed.

If you're concerned about a mole or lesion on your body, talk to your doctor. For more information on routine ways to check your skin, follow the ABCDE rule.