Melanoma is a malignant tumor that originates from melanocytes. Melanoma ranks third in the overall number of skin cancers but it is the most malignant of them all. Except on the skin, it may occur at other sites, such as mucosa, the choroid and leptomeninges. It is the most common in areas of high insolation, therefore the highest incidence is recorded in Australia. Considering the fact that the main risk factor is exposure to sunlight, this incidence is not surprising. In children and young adults it is primarily associated with multiple acute sun exposure, and in the elderly with chronic sun exposure. Phenotypic characteristics are also considered as an important risk factor. People with fair skin, light – colored eyes and hair are at greater risk. Only 5 – 10 % of melanomas are associated with inherited genetic material, but positive family history should indicate increased caution. Increased number of dysplastic moles or a mole that differs from other moles on the body, moles deviating from ABCDE rule, should arouse clinical suspicion of melanoma. Suspicious lesion should be excised and histologically evaluated. Further analysis and therapeutic procedures depend on physical examination findings and a pathology report. The primary therapeutic option in the melanoma treatment is surgery, but if metastatic disease is present, systemic therapy is indicated. BRAF inhibitors are recommended as first line treatment, alone or in combination with MEK inhibitors. For BRAF mutation negative patients immunotherapeutic drugs are recommended as first line treatment , as well as a single agent or combination therapy. If such a treatment is unavailable, if patients develop resistance or toxic adverse effects, traditional chemotherapy may be administered. For patients whose general health condition does not allow the application of therapy, we need to ensure the best possible palliative care.