• Melanoma and Other Skin Cancers - Treatment for Other Skin Cancers
• Highlights
• Introduction
• Melanoma
• Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer
• Precancerous Skin Conditions
• Causes

Diagnosis

An experienced doctor should first rule out noncancerous (benign) conditions that resemble melanoma, such as a mole called a melanocytic nevus.

In rare instances, a melanoma will be difficult to detect. For example, an uncommon form called a myxoid melanoma may be mistaken for a benign skin disorder known as a myxoid fibrohistiocytic lesion. Additional diagnotic procedures such as a biopsy (see below), computerized image processing or advanced staining techniques may help to confirm or...