Melanoma: A Patient’s Guide
What Does The Term "Unknown Primary" Mean?

Sometimes people find out that they have melanoma only when it has already spread to some other area besides the skin, such as a lymph node or internal organ. Most of the time the physician, by performing a thorough examination, will be able to locate where the melanoma began on the surface of the skin. However, sometimes the physician cannot find any mole or area on the skin that contains melanoma. This is what is called an "unknown primary."

What does "staging" mean?

Melanoma - A Guide For Patients

Cancer Care Information