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Melanoma is a malignant tumor of melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells derived from the neural crest. It most commonly arises in the skin but can also occur in the uvea, mucosal surfaces, and leptomeninges.

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It is the most aggressive form of skin cancer, with a high potential for metastasis.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zAvz9GAaGI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkYBxfKDyv0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHUqxNJlIfw

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNNDuiFK4CA

Etiopathogenesis

Genetic factors:

• BRAF mutations (esp. V600E) – ~50%
• NRAS, KIT, and TP53 mutations
• CDKN2A and CDK4 gene alterations (familial melanoma)

Environmental factors:

• Ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure (especially intermittent intense sunburns)
• Use of tanning beds

Host factors:

• Fair skin, light eyes/hair
• Presence of dysplastic nevi
• Personal or family history of melanoma
• Immunosuppression