Melanoma, also known as malignant melanoma, generally appears on the skin or in areas such as mucous membranes and the choroid of the eye. It is the most malignant type of skin tumor and is prone to distant metastases. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in the initial stages of the disease. If a diagnosis of melanoma is confirmed at a formal hospital, it is recommended that patients undergo a complete excision biopsy of the lesion. If the lesion is too large to be removed, a superficial skin lesion theft or punch biopsy may also be considered.