Symptoms of MELANOMA

There are several forms of melanoma, and they have slightly different symptoms. Superficial spreading melanoma accounts for over two-thirds of all cases. Persons of any age can be affected. There are usually small lesions with irregular border. The color of the lesions can range from red to white to blue or blue-black. They occur most commonly on the trunk or on the arms and legs. Nodular melanoma may develop anywhere on the skin. It occurs most commonly between 20 and 70 years of age. Nodular melanoma forms shiny, firm pearl to black lumps. These lumps may develop ulcers that fail to heal. Acral lentiginous melanoma produces dark lesions that occur most frequently on the hands, feet and mucous membranes. They form only about 10 of all melanomas, and are more commonly seen in old age. Finally, Lentigo maligna melanoma accounts for about 5% of the cases of melanoma. It forms a large brown spot with black or dark brown speckles. It often occurs in older people, especially in sun exposed areas.