Melanoma: A Disease For All Ages

Melanoma is an aggressive malignancy of melanocytes that accounts for a small proportion of skin cancer diagnoses yet contributes disproportionately to skin cancer–related mortality. While traditionally associated with older adults, melanoma represents one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers among adolescents and young adults (AYAs), highlighting the need for age-specific scientific and clinical perspectives. This review synthesizes current literature on the biology of melanoma, with particular emphasis on molecular signaling pathways, recurrent genetic mutations, patterns of disease detection in AYA populations, and emerging therapeutic strategies. Key oncogenic drivers—including mutations in BRAF, NRAS, and KIT—are examined in the context of aberrant MAPK pathway activation and melanoma progression. Additionally, this review evaluates diagnostic challenges unique to AYAs and discusses how advances in targeted therapy and immunotherapy have reshaped treatment outcomes. By integrating molecular mechanisms with age-relevant clinical considerations, this review aims to provide a focused framework for understanding melanoma pathogenesis and management in adolescent and young adult populations.