Malignant melanoma primarily targets which type of cell in the skin?

Malignant melanoma primarily targets melanocytes, which are the pigment-producing cells located in the basal layer of the epidermis of the skin. These cells are responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color and protects against ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Melanoma arises from the uncontrolled proliferation of these melanocytes, often as a result of damage from UV exposure. The malignant transformation of melanocytes leads to the development of skin lesions that can be aggressive and metastasize to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.

Understanding the origin of malignant melanoma is crucial for diagnosing and strategizing treatment options, along with recognizing risk factors associated with UV exposure that can lead to alterations in melanocyte behavior. This helps in educating patients on preventive measures such as sun protection to reduce the risk of developing melanoma.

The focus on melanocytes distinguishes melanoma from other skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, which arise from different types of skin cells.