**Malignant Melanoma**

**Core Concept**
Malignant melanoma is a type of skin cancer that originates from melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin. It is known for its rapid progression and high mortality rate if left untreated.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Malignant melanoma arises from the transformation of normal melanocytes into malignant cells. This transformation is often the result of mutations in the BRAF gene, which encodes a protein involved in cell signaling pathways. The disease can be classified into four main types: superficial spreading melanoma, nodular melanoma, lentigo maligna melanoma, and acral lentiginous melanoma. The prognosis of malignant melanoma is largely dependent on the thickness of the tumor and the presence of lymph node metastasis.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Not provided.
**Option B:** Not provided.
**Option C:** Not provided.
**Option D:** Not provided.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember the ABCDE rule for identifying suspicious pigmented lesions: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter greater than 6mm, and Evolving changes in size or shape.

**Correct Answer:** Not provided.