Melanoma is a tumor that originates from melanocytes, ie the cells responsible for the production of melanin, a natural pigment that protects against the harmful effects of sunlight.
Cutaneous melanoma is certainly the most well-known tumor, but the neoplastic transformation can also affect other less accessible bodily districts, without causing any obvious primary sign on the skin.
In addition to being present in the surface layer of the skin (epidermis), in fact, melanocytes are present in other tissues. These cells are found, for example, at the level of the eye and mucous membranes .
Non-cutaneous melanomas represent about 4-5% of all melanomas.
Intraocular melanoma
Intraocular melanoma constitutes about 2% of all malignant tumors of the eye. This form generally develops at the level of the uvea, but can also affect the choroid, ciliary bodies, iris and conjunctiva.
Mucosal melanoma
Mucosal melanomas are rarer than ocular ones. It develops mainly on the vulvar level (especially on the clitoris and labia minora), vaginal and anal . However, it can also originate in the mucous membranes that line the mouth, throat and nose.
