Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that occurs in melanocytes, the pigment producing cells in the skin. It can be caused by excessive sun exposure, especially in fair skinned people, and it can be inherited. People with a greater than average number of moles are at an increased risk of developing Melanoma. If left untreated, Melanoma can grow deep into the skin; it can reach the blood and lymphatic vessels and spread throughout the body. Melanoma can be life threatening, however, it is curable if detected early.