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Types of Melanoma



Although melanoma is associated with skin cancer, it may also form in the eyes, under the nails, inside the mouth, digestive tract, in the urinary tract, anus or vagina. Four types of melanoma commonly seen include:

• Nodular Malignant Melanoma: Lesions in nodular malignant melanoma may occur on different parts of the body, especially on sun exposed areas such as legs and trunk. The lesions appear raised, in the shape of nodes and frequently ulcerated. They may spread to surrounding areas although nodular growths seem vertical than horizontal.
• Lentigo Maligna: This form of melanoma is also called Hutchison’s Freckle. The pigmented lesions often start flat and gradually spread larger. Lentigo Maligna on the face and neck region and chest and back area may start as discolored lesions and may take years to turn invasive.
• Acral Lentiginous Malignant Melanoma: Lesions in this form of melanoma start flat and quickly turn into nodular melanoma. This form of melanoma is often called hidden melanoma as it occurs in less conspicuous areas such as palms of the hand, under the nails, soles of the feet and in the mucous membrane lining areas such as mouth, nasal tract, esophagus and parts of the digestive tract. This aggressive form of melanoma may also invade the genital area including anus and vagina.
• Superficial Spreading Malignant Melanoma: This form of melanoma occurs equally in men and women. Slight raised lesions appear sprinkled unevenly on the backs and genital areas. Colors range from red, brown and black to purple or blue. The metastasis of this form of melanoma takes a longer period and therefore the chance of treatment is higher. With early diagnosis and treatment, patients may look at successful survival rates.

Another rare form of congenital melanoma includes congenital nevus. Appearing either at birth or immediately after birth, it may pose a risk of malignancy.