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Melanoma is a skin cancer that begins in cells called melanocytes that make the brown pigment called melanin. In most instances, melanoma arises from a previously existing mole, and it may spread to other locations if not treated. Melanoma is a potentially deadly skin cancer, but it can often be found early with regular screenings of the skin.
Once a mole has developed, it will usually stay the same size, shape, and color for many years. Moles may eventually fade away in older people. Most people have moles, and almost all moles are harmless. But it is important to recognize changes in a mole, such as its size, shape, or color, that suggest a melanoma may be developing.
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