melanin

Oral melanotic macule

An oral melanotic macule is a benign (noncancerous), flat, pigmented spot found on the mucous membranes of the oral cavity. It is not a type of cancer nor a precursor to cancer but is simply a localized area of increased pigmentation. Does an oral melanotic macule need to be removed? This lesion is generally harmless …
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Melanocyte

What is a melanocyte? Melanocytes are specialized cells that produce melanin, a dark pigment that helps protect our body from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Most melanocytes are in the skin although they can also be found inside the mouth, nose, sinuses, and anal canal. The amount of melanin normally found in our skin determines our …
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