Hereditary Melanoma Risk
Melanoma Risk
What is melanoma?
Melanoma is an aggressive type of skin cancer. It begins in the skin cells called melanocytes that make pigment. Although rare, melanoma can also occur in the eye or other sites, including the intestine.
Who is at risk for melanoma?
Everyone is at risk for melanoma; the risk increases with age. The following factors also increase risk:
- increased sun exposure and exposure to tanning beds
- having many moles or certain types of irregular moles called dysplastic nevi
- men have an overall higher risk for melanoma than women, although this varies by age
- non-Hispanic white people have a higher risk than people of other races or ethnicities
- having fair skin, blond or red hair, blue eyes, and freckles
- a previous diagnosis of skin cancer
- the presence of an or a personal or family history of melanoma
- a weakened immune system
Inherited mutations in the genes below have been linked to increased melanoma risk.
In the News
Despite national guidelines recommending genetic testing, less than 10 percent of eligible patients had genetic testing within two years after their cancer diagnosis. Among those who had testing, 10-30 percent...
Is melanoma hereditary?
About 10% of people with melanoma have an linked to increased cancer risk. Genetic counseling and testing can help people learn if they are at high risk. Inherited mutations in the genes below increase the risk for melanoma and can cause cancer to run in families.
Genes Linked to Melanoma Risk |
ACD, BAP1 (melanoma and uveal melanoma), BRCA1*, BRCA2, CDKN2A, CDK4, MC1R, MBD4 (uveal melanoma), MITF, PALB2* (uveal), POT1, PTEN, RB1, TERF2IP, TERT, TP53, XP genes |
*More research is needed to confirm a link between a mutation in this gene and increased risk for melanoma. |
Mutations in other genes may increase the risk of melanoma. Talk to your healthcare professional to understand your risk.
Learn about melanoma risk management and treatment
Learn about Risk Management Options
National expert guidelines for melanoma risk management vary based on gene mutation and other factors that affect risk. Click on the button below to learn more about these guidelines.
Learn about Treatment Options
People diagnosed with melanoma may have different treatment options based on , subtype, and genetic and results. Click on the button below to learn more about these treatment options.