Melanoma is an aggressive, fast-growing cancer that grows in the skin and other areas of the body. It grows in cells called melanocytes, which produce melanin, the pigment that colors the skin, hair, and eyes.

Early detection and treatment can often provide a cure. At Penn Medicine, our Melanoma and Skin Cancer Care specialists are dedicated to exceptional care for people with all kinds of melanomas—skin and non-skin types—including melanoma that has metastasized or spread. In addition, we work with a multidisciplinary team of experts, including dermatologists, medical oncologists, surgeons, and more, to give you the best possible outcome.

Types of melanomas

Melanomas can have different characteristics and are classified based on their appearance and location. Understanding the various melanoma types is important for diagnosis, treatment, and management. Our specialists have advanced training and extensive experience diagnosing and treating all types of melanomas, including the following.

• Melanoma of the skin
• Ocular (eye) melanoma
• Mucosal melanoma
• Metastatic melanoma

Melanoma symptoms and signs

Melanoma cancer symptoms are different depending on the type, area of the body, and stage of the cancer. In melanoma of the skin, the first symptoms include a change to an existing mole, growth of a new mole, or crustiness on the skin. Ocular melanoma may not show any signs or symptoms at first. When symptoms do develop, they may include eyes that bulge, a shift in the eyeball’s movements within the socket, or a change in the shape or size of the pupil. The signs and symptoms of mucosal melanoma vary based on where the cancer is growing and may include bleeding lumps, open sores, or pain during or after intercourse.

If you experience signs of melanoma, contact your doctor immediately. Timely detection and treatment significantly improve the chances of a successful outcome.

Melanoma causes, risks, and prevention

Melanoma, like other types of cancer, develops when cells in the body undergo genetic mutations that cause them to grow and divide uncontrollably. A combination of genetic factors and environmental exposures can cause these mutations. Understanding the causes, risks, and steps to prevent melanoma will help give you the best results.

Getting evaluated for melanoma

When it comes to getting an accurate melanoma diagnosis, our providers bring decades of experience. We use advanced tools to look for suspicious growths and modern tests like skin biopsy, genetic testing, or others to help us confirm a diagnosis.

Melanoma treatment at Penn Medicine

Melanoma requires exceptional skill and training for successful treatment. Our specialists work with you to develop a treatment plan to give you the best possible outcome. It may include targeted therapy, melanoma surgery, radiation, or other treatments.

Penn Medicine: Nationally recognized leader in cancer care

Providing the best care for melanoma requires an expert team. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) has recognized Penn Medicine’s Tara Miller Melanoma Center as outstanding, the highest possible rating for a cancer research program. When you partner with us, you can expect:

• Latest advances in diagnostics: We perform a complete evaluation, using the most advanced diagnostic testing. Our goal is to find cancerous growths as early as possible when they’re the most treatable.
• Extensive treatment options: Our specialists have experience treating even the rarest and most complex forms of melanoma. Through our research experience, we’ve developed expertise with the latest treatments, many of which can provide a cure.
• Strong focus on patient education: Your Penn Medicine care team shows you ways to lower your risk of developing melanoma. We monitor you regularly, especially if you have risk factors such as a family history of melanoma.