Malignant Melanoma: The Most Serious Skin Cancer
Melanoma originates in pigment-producing melanocytes and can appear anywhere on the skin, including normally unexposed areas. Rapidly increasing in incidence, it demands careful evaluation. Early, thin melanomas are highly curable, while invasive tumors can spread to lymph nodes and organs, making timely diagnosis critical.
Legacy Dermatology offers expert assessment, advanced imaging, and individualized management plans to optimize outcomes and minimize risk. Patients benefit from evidence-based approaches, precision removal, and lifelong surveillance, ensuring both safety and confidence in care.


Early vs. Advanced Melanoma: In Situ and Invasive Forms
“In situ” melanomas remain confined to the top skin layer and are highly curable. Invasive melanomas penetrate deeper layers and may metastasize, requiring comprehensive treatment. Early identification dramatically improves prognosis and long-term survival.
• Superficial Spreading Melanoma: Most common, spreads along skin surface before deeper invasion.
• Lentigo Maligna Melanoma: Often occurs on sun-damaged skin in elderly, slowly invasive.
• Acral Lentiginous Melanoma: Appears on palms, soles, or nails, common in darker-skinned individuals.
• Nodular Melanoma: Rapidly invasive from onset, aggressive and often life-threatening.