Melanocytes are cells that produce dark skin pigment known as melanin. Melanin is what gives your skin color. At times, melanocytes may clump into a group forming a nevus (plural nevi) or mole. Nevi can be classified as either common or abnormal (atypical) moles. Moles (Nevi) versus Melanoma A nevus is a non-cancerous (benign) mole. Moles are generally not congenital (present at…
Types and Stages of Melanoma Melanoma is the most serious and deadly form of skin cancer, but it is not as common as other types. However, the incidence of melanoma continues to rise in the United States population. The risks for melanoma increase as we age, but it is often seen in younger people. There are four main kinds of…
Melanoma forms when malignant cancer cells form in the cells that color the skin (called melanocytes). These melanocyte skin cells make melanin, which is the pigment that gives skin its natural color. Melanocytes are found in the lower part of the top layer of skin, or epidermis. Sun exposure causes these cells to produce more pigment which is why the…