Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that develops in melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells responsible for skin color. It is considered one of the most aggressive skin cancers because it can grow quickly and metastasize to lymph nodes and distant organs if not detected and treated early. Risk factors include fair skin, history of intense sunburns, numerous or atypical moles, family history of melanoma, and use of tanning beds. Staging is based on tumor thickness, ulceration, lymph node involvement, and presence of distant metastases. Treatment often involves surgical excision and may include lymph node biopsy, immunotherapy, targeted therapies, or radiation for more advanced disease. From an insurance perspective, melanoma is a significant underwriting concern because recurrence and mortality risk vary widely by stage and time since treatment, requiring careful evaluation of pathology reports and follow-up records.

In underwriting and advisory practice, the term melanoma appears frequently when reviewing dermatology reports or pathology results on life and disability insurance applicants. Underwriters pay close attention to details such as Breslow thickness, Clark level, mitotic rate, and whether lymph nodes were involved. An early-stage melanoma completely excised several years ago with no recurrence may be insurable at standard or mildly rated terms, while thicker or metastatic cases often lead to heavy ratings, long postponements, or declines. Advisors working with clients who have a history of melanoma should gather comprehensive documentation, including surgical reports and follow-up notes, to shop the case effectively. Producers sometimes collaborate with impaired-risk specialists who know which carriers are more receptive to well-treated melanoma histories. Client conversations often emphasize the importance of ongoing dermatologic follow-up, sun protection, and timely disclosure of any new lesions or biopsies during underwriting or policy reviews.