Welcome to the University of Illinois Hospital Melanoma and Skin Cancer Center (MSCC)
Every hour, one American dies of melanoma. Our mission is to bring the highest quality screening and treatment of melanoma and other skin cancers to the communities in which we serve.
Consisting of expert physicians from UIC’s College of Medicine, our Melanoma Team works collaboratively to detect and diagnose skin changes and to provide personalized treatment options. We utilize the latest mole mapping technologies as well as expert opinion to catch disease while it is still treatable. From traditional surgeries to clinical trials of innovative drug therapies, we have the experience you need to for the best outcome possible.
What is melanoma?
Melanoma is a cancer of the melanocytes, cells that produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its natural color. When skin is exposed to the sun, melanocytes produce more pigment, causing the skin to tan or darken. Sometimes, clusters of melanocytes and surrounding tissue form noncancerous growths called moles. Moles are very common, with an average of between 10 and 40 moles per person. However, melanoma occurs when melanocytes become malignant, invading into adjacent tissues, and possibly spreading to distant tissues (metastasizing). It is the most deadly skin cancer and very common. This year alone over 50,000 people the U.S. will learn they have melanoma.
Other Skin Cancers
These include both common and uncommon cancers. We treat basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, two common skin cancers, as well as Merkel cell carcinoma, porocarcinoma, and sebaceous carcinoma.
Schedule a screening at MSCC today.
Our melanoma team combines specialist expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of melanoma. If you are diagnosed with melanoma, our physicians will discuss the treatment options and procedures that are best for you. We meet regularly to jointly review and discuss your case and recommend a personalized treatment plan. In addition, patient navigators are also available to provide support about forms, procedures, and next steps.