AAFM Boards Dermatology Practice Test

Malignant melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer, has several risk factors that increase the likelihood of development, and immunosuppression is particularly significant among them. Individuals with weakened immune systems, whether due to medical conditions (like HIV/AIDS), organ transplant medications, or certain autoimmune diseases, are at a heightened risk for various cancers, including melanoma. The immune system plays a crucial role in identifying and eliminating cancerous cells, so when it is impaired, the body may not effectively respond to early tumor formation or prevent the growth of melanoma cells.

Low UV exposure and dark skin pigmentation do not serve as risk factors for malignant melanoma. High UV exposure, rather than low, is a primary risk factor for melanoma because ultraviolet radiation from the sun or tanning beds can damage the DNA in skin cells. Similarly, individuals with darker skin have more melanin, which offers some protection against UV radiation, thereby reducing their risk for melanoma compared to those with lighter skin tones.

Having only a small number of atypical nevi does not significantly elevate the risk of melanoma, especially when contrasted with those who have numerous atypical nevi or other more overt risk factors. Thus, the presence of immunosuppression stands out as a clear and significant risk factor for malignant