Melanoma is a form of cancer that develops from the pigment producing cells of the skin. If untreated it can spread through the body and is potentially fatal.

In many parts of the world melanoma is becoming more common. However, it is still unusual to have more than one case of melanoma in a single family. When more than one person in a family has a melanoma, there might be something ‘running in the family’. That ‘something’ could mean other family members are more likely to get a melanoma than people outside the family.

The following information is for people who suspect that their family carries an increased risk of melanoma. It is also for people who have been told that they have such an increased risk.

Words in bold are defined in the Glossary at the bottom of this page.

There is a detailed CD-Rom/DVD called “Melanoma – Dealing with the diagnosis”. This was produced by Professor Newton Bishop, and colleagues from St James’s University Hospital in Leeds and from Bradford Royal Infirmary. The presentation contains text about melanoma, its diagnosis and treatment.

The information in this booklet is about dealing with melanoma, and is intended for patients who have recently been diagnosed with melanoma, and their families. This booklet contains written information, illustrations and photographs.

To download and view the PDF online version please click here.

What about gene testing?

There is a test for mutations in the CDKN2A gene and GenoMEL uses such a test in its research. This work is vital to understanding melanoma and finding better ways of preventing and treating it.

Testing is also available clinically (as part of individual treatment) in several countries including the USA.

We feel routine testing of family members might be premature. Why?

A negative test result might only mean a family possesses other high-risk genes for melanoma that we have yet to identify.

With the information we currently have it is difficult to say exactly what the chances of developing a melanoma are with a positive test.

A positive test would not really change a person’s treatment or care. Patients should still see their specialist regularly and be advised to practise sun protection.

A positive test might have an impact on insurance premiums.

Page updated: 12/02/08