About this study
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer because it can spread to other parts of the body. The most common cause of melanoma is ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Although the overall number of children and adolescents with melanoma is relatively small, it is the most common skin cancer in children and is increasing. Teens between the ages of 15 and 19 have the highest rates of childhood melanoma.
There are several types of melanoma tumors, and each one has unique characteristics. Medical tests can help doctors identify these characteristics. Doctors can use that information to decide the best way to treat that specific type of tumor.
Eligibility overview
- Diagnosed with a melanoma tumor that is malignant (cancerous) or that might be cancerous. Tumors may include:
- Conventional or “adult-type” melanoma
- Spitzoid melanoma/atypical Spitz tumor
- Congenital melanoma
- Melanoma arising in a giant congenital nevus
- Melanocytic lesions with indeterminate biological behavior (e.g., pigment-synthesizing melanomas)
- Up to 18 years of age