This upper abdominal MRI scan shows multiple tumors in the liver which have spread (metastasized) from a malignant melanoma in an arm or leg. Note the light circular areas throughout the liver (seen mostly on the left side of the screen).

Malignant melanoma. The incidence of this form of skin cancer is increasing faster than that of any other form of cancer.

Melanomas are sometimes called the patriotic cancer because they may be colored red, whitish, and blue (to blue-black) all in the same lesion. This lesion has multiple colors.

Melanomas are sometimes called the patriotic cancer because they may be colored red, whitish, and blue (to blue-black) all in the same lesion. This lesion has multiple colors.

Note the presence of multiple colors within this melanoma lesion. It is referred to as "patriotic cancer" because it is typically colored red, white, blue/black. This is a common appearance for a melanoma.

Sentinel node biopsy is a technique which helps determine if a cancer has spread (metastasized), or is contained locally. When a cancer has been detected, often the next step is to find the lymph node closest to the tumor site and retrieve it for analysis. The concept of the "sentinel" node, or the first node to drain the area of the cancer, allows a more accurate staging of the cancer, and leaves unaffected nodes behind to continue the important job of draining fluids. The procedure involves the injection of a dye (sometimes mildly radioactive) to pinpoint the lymph node which is closest to the cancer site. Sentinel node biopsy is used to stage many kinds of cancer, including lung and skin (melanoma).

Clothing which blocks or screens the harmful rays of the sun (UVA and UVB), in combination with wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, are all helpful in preventing damage to the eyes and skin. Any one of these by itself, even the sunscreen, may not be enough to prevent sun damage.

The skin is the largest organ of the body. The skin and its derivatives (hair, nails, sweat and oil glands) make up the integumentary system. One of the main functions of the skin is protection. It protects the body from external factors such as bacteria, chemicals, and temperature.

Malignant melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. Melanomas beneath the fingernail appear as a black or bluish black discoloration. This type of malignancy spreads (metastasizes) readily.

Increased risk for skin cancer, especially melanoma, is associated with chronic exposure to sunlight, blistering sunburns, and a family history of skin cancer.

Malignant melanoma is the most dangerous type of the skin cancers. Typical features of melanomas include irregular borders, multiple colors within the lesion, rapid growth, and susceptibility to easy injury with bleeding. Any mole that exhibits any of these changes should be evaluated immediately by your physician.

Malignant melanoma is the most dangerous type of the skin cancers. Typical features of melanomas include irregular borders, multiple colors within the lesion, rapid growth, and susceptibility to easy injury with bleeding. Any mole that exhibits any of these changes should be evaluated immediately by your physician.

Malignant melanoma is the most dangerous type of the skin cancers. Typical features of melanomas include irregular borders, multiple colors within the lesion, rapid growth, and susceptibility to easy injury with bleeding. Any mole that exhibits any of these changes should be evaluated immediately by your health care provider.

This melanoma on the neck is variously colored with a very darkly pigmented area found centrally. It has irregular borders and appears to be larger than 0.5 cm. Prognosis in melanoma is best defined by its depth on resection.

Melanoma is a malignant skin tumor that involves the skin cells that produce pigment (melanin). The risk of melanoma increases with age, but frequently affects young, otherwise healthy people. Melanoma is the number one cause of cancer death in women aged 25 to 30.