Hereditary Melanoma
Frequently Asked Questions about Hereditary Melanoma
Hereditary melanomas are caused by gene changes known as inherited mutations. Inherited mutations can be passed down from parents to children and can cause cancer to run in families. Below are some of the questions people ask about hereditary melanoma, genetics, screening, prevention and treatment.
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
Is melanoma genetic?
All melanomas are caused by damage to genes in the cells that make melanin. Most of this damage happens during the course of a person's lifetime.
About 10% of melanomas are hereditary. These are caused by inherited mutations that are present at birth and can be passed on from parents to their children. Genetic counseling and testing can help people learn if they are at high risk for melanoma and other cancers.
How can you tell if melanoma is hereditary?
The best way to learn if melanoma is hereditary is through genetic testing. Some of the more common indications of hereditary melanoma include:
- multiple melanomas in the same person
- more than one person on the same side of the family with melanoma or pancreatic cancer
- young onset melanoma
You can read more about melanoma genetic testing here.
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Genes Linked to Melanoma Risk
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ACD, BAP1 (melanoma and ), *, , , , MC1R, MBD4 (), MITF, * (uveal), POT1, , RB1, TERF2IP, TERT, , XP genes |
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*More research is needed to confirm a link between a mutation in this gene and increased risk for melanoma. |
What can people do to manage their melanoma risk?
There are two main medical approaches to managing an increased melanoma risk:
- increased screening
- minimizing exposure to the sun
You can learn more about risk-management options here.
Screening and Prevention
National expert guidelines for melanoma risk management vary based on gene mutation and other factors that affect risk.
Treatment
People diagnosed with melanoma may have different treatment options based on stage, subtype, and genetic and biomarker test results.
Genetic Testing
National guidelines outline who should consider genetic counseling and testing for an inherited mutation linked to cancer.