Fast-Growing Malignant Melanoma

Abstract

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, its incidence increases with age. Melanomas are malignant tumors that are derived from melanocytes. The most common site of involvement is represented by the skin. Melanomas are considered a major cause of premature death from cancer. Melanomas produce pigment in varying amounts and may elicit an immune response that will be reflected in the clinical appearance. Some melanomas may lack pigment. A small but significant number of melanomas are undiagnosable clinically. A history of change may be the only clue to the correct diagnosis. We present the case of a 45-year-old woman, presented to our Dermatology Department with a rapidly changing nevus that bled with minimal trauma, located on her back.