Melanoma is one of the most dangerous types of skin cancer that develops in the cells (melanocytes) that produce melanin. Melanin gives color to the skin. The cancer can develop in the eyes and in rare cases develops inside the body, such as in the nose or throat. It begins in a mole generally, but can also begin in other pigmented tissues, the eyes, or the intestines.

Melanoma is less common than the other types of skin cancer. It is more likely to affect the nearby tissue and spread to other parts of the body. It causes more deaths than any other form of skin cancer. Here are some common and rare types of melanoma to know about.

Common types of melanoma
The most common melanomas are cutaneous because they develop on the skin, in areas that are exposed to the sun. The most common sites for the condition are the chest and back in men; whereas, in women, the legs are the most affected. Melanomas are more commonly found on the neck or face. Some common types of the condition are:

• Superficial spreading melanoma: This is the most commonly known melanoma. The disease grows along with the outer layer of the skin for several years. It may be elevated and have irregular borders.
• Nodular melanoma: Nodular melanoma quickly grows deeper into the layers of the skin. This type of melanoma appears as a bump or a growth.
• Acral-lentiginous melanoma: This form of melanoma is the most common among people with a dark complexion. It is generally found on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, or under the fingernails.
• Lentigo maligna melanoma: This type of melanoma is often found in adults on their arms, legs, face, neck, and other areas that are exposed to the sun.

Rare types of melanoma
Some types of melanoma do not start or begin in the skin. These are known as rare types of melanoma. Some of these conditions are as follows:

• Mucosal lentiginous melanoma: This type of melanoma develops on the moist and thin lining of some organs or other body parts, such as nasal passages, mouth, throat, rectum, anal canal, and vagina. It is usually diagnosed at a late stage and tends to grow and spread rapidly.
• Intraocular melanoma : It is the most common type of eye cancer and starts in the organ.
• Desmoplastic melanoma: This develops in the inner and thick layer of skin or in the layer of connective tissue that surrounds the mucosa. It generally appears as a lump that matches the color of the skin. It grows down into the skin and generally develops on the neck, head, upper back, or other areas of the body with a mucosa.

These are some common and rare types of melanoma to know of. The disease can grow and metastasize into different parts of the body, invading the nearby tissue, and the earlier it gets detected, the better one’s chances are for a complete cure.