What Is Superficial Spreading Melanoma?
Superficial spreading melanoma (SSM) is a type of skin lesion which may be a precursor to skin cancer. It initially appears small and looks similar to a slightly large freckle, but significantly progresses into a larger, more prominent lesion. Anyone may contract this condition regardless of age and gender, though certain people are more susceptible than others. While its prognosis is generally considered promising and not life-threatening, the condition may be fatal if left untreated. Of the four types of melanoma, superficial spreading melanoma accounts for about 70 percent of all reported cases. Nodular melanoma accounts for about 15 percent of cases, lentigo maligna melanoma for about 10 percent, and acral lentiginous melanoma for about 5 percent. The latter of these is considered the most life-threatening of all forms of melanoma. Since superficial spreading melanoma is quite prominent, it is still the leading cause of death from cancer despite its positive prognosis.
