Melanoma is one of the common types of skin cancer that results from the abnormal growth of melanocyte cells in the skin. According to the American Cancer Society, about 100,350 new cases of melanoma will be diagnosed in the country in 2020. Here are some of the common and rare types of melanoma you should know about.

Common types of melanoma

• Superficial spreading melanoma – As the name suggests, this is a type of cancer that starts spreading on the external/top layers of the skin. It can take several years for cancer to surface. Superficial melanoma is characterized by skin discoloration with black or pink edges to the cancerous surfaces. In the list of common and rare types of melanoma, this type attributes to 70% of all cases.
• Acral-lentiginous melanoma – This is a very common type of melanoma that affects African-Americans in the country. This cancer looks like a flat spot that is different in color than the rest of the skin. The skin looks abnormally black or brown, and it takes a long time for this type of cancer to start showing visible signs. The cancer is mostly visible on the palms and soles of the feet.
• Nodular melanoma – Up to 20% of all melanoma cancers belong to the Nodular category. The growth of the cancer is rapid and often resembles a black or brown colored mushroom on the skin. This type develops on the back, chest, or face.

Rare types of melanoma

• Mucosal lentiginous melanoma – This is a rare type of melanoma that develops in the moist linings of the body, including the nasal passage, vagina, anal canal, throat, and rectum. It is the only skin cancer not caused due to overexposure to the sun. This type of cancer spreads very fast.
• Lentigo Maligna melanoma – In the list of common and rare types of melanoma, this rare type of cancer occurs only in 5% of melanoma patients. This is seen more frequently in older adults, and cancer takes several years to surface. Chronic sun exposure is identified as the major cause of this rare type of cancer.
• Ocular melanoma – This is also one of the rare types of cancer, accounting for only 3% of all the melanoma cases. This is a tumor that starts in the eye. The melanocyte cells in the eyes start growing uncontrollably, and it is distinguished into five types based on the different areas around the eyes that are affected.
  • Iris melanoma
  • Eyelid melanoma
  • Choroidal melanoma
  • Conjunctival melanoma
  • Optic nerve melanoma

All these common and rare types of melanoma are mostly a result of excessive UV exposure. Keeping yourself safe from the sun with sunscreens and protective gear when you step outside your house will keep lower your risk of developing melanoma.