Melanoma Genetic Testing | Skin Cancer DNA Kit

What is Melanoma Skin Cancer?

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops when abnormal melanocytes (the cells that produce pigment) grow and divide uncontrollably, forming a tumour. Melanoma most commonly appears on the skin but can also occur in areas like the eyes or inside the mouth. Melanoma can affect people of all skin tones and ages, although it is more common in lighter-skinned individuals. Symptoms of melanoma can include:

A new mole or a change in an existing mole
A mole that is asymmetrical, has uneven borders, or multiple colours
A mole larger than 6mm across
Changes in the texture, itching, bleeding, or crusting of a mole
A sore that does not heal
Dark streaks under a fingernail or toenail

Early diagnosis can make a big difference to treatment outcomes. If you are experiencing any symptoms that are worrying you, it is important that you report this to your GP.

More information about melanoma can be found the Macmillan melanoma page.

What are the causes?

Melanoma is most commonly caused by damage to the skin cells from UV radiation, either from sunlight or artificial sources like sunbeds. Other risk factors include having a large number of moles, fair skin that burns easily, a history of sunburn, and a weakened immune system.

Usually, when someone is diagnosed with cancer, the cause is unknown. Contributing factors may include age, family history, environment, lifestyle and hormonal factors. Melanoma is most commonly caused by damage to the skin cells from UV radiation, either from sunlight or artificial sources like sunbeds. Other risk factors include having a large number of moles, fair skin that burns easily, a history of sunburn, and a weakened immune system.

In some cases, genetic testing can identify a variant (change) in a single gene that contributes to a person to having an increased risk of developing certain cancers over their lifetime. These gene variants can be passed down through families.

Inherited genetic mutations account for a smaller but important percentage of melanoma cases, particularly in families with multiple affected members. Mutations in genes such as CDKN2A and BAP1 can significantly increase lifetime risk.

What other tests are available?

Diagnosis of melanoma typically starts with a skin examination, followed by a biopsy to confirm if a suspicious mole or lesion is cancerous. Imaging tests such as lymph node ultrasound, CT scans, or PET scans may be used to see if the cancer has spread.

If you are concerned about inherited risk, genetic testing can detect mutations linked to hereditary melanoma. Knowing your genetic status can help you and your healthcare team create a tailored screening and prevention plan to catch potential problems as early as possible.

Is genetic testing for melanoma risk genes right for me?

Some people with a personal diagnosis or strong family history of melanoma cancer, or related cancers, such as colorectal cancer or ovarian cancer, may choose to consider genetic testing to try and identify a cause for their diagnosis or their family history.

Identifying a variant in a cancer gene can help clarify personal risk of developing certain cancers and inform your risk management options.

Genetic testing can provide very useful information, but may not be the right choice for everyone. Speaking to a genetic counsellor can help you explore your personal and family history, understand what testing might mean for you and your family, and help you make a decision that feels right for you.

Disclaimer! The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is based on NHS recommendations. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider for advice on medical conditions or treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there genetic testing for Melanoma?

Genetic testing is available for melanoma, especially if you have a strong family history or multiple cases in close relatives.

At Jeen, our at-home test includes genes linked to hereditary melanoma such as CDKN2A, CDK4, and others involved in pigment and cancer pathways. Even if you haven’t had melanoma yourself, testing can uncover hidden risk and help guide early monitoring or prevention.

Some of the genes associated with melanoma may also raise the risk for other cancers, like pancreatic cancer or breast cancer, depending on the mutation. That’s why our panel looks more broadly at related hereditary cancer risks, offering a fuller picture of your genetic health.

Can Melanoma be inherited genetically?

Melanoma can be inherited genetically in some cases. Around 5-10% of all melanomas are considered hereditary. This means they’re caused by inherited mutations in specific genes, most notably CDKN2A, which is the most well-established gene linked to familial melanoma.

If you have two or more close relatives with melanoma, or a family history of both melanoma and pancreatic cancer, your risk of having an inherited mutation is higher.

At Jeen, our at-home genetic test screens for key melanoma-related genes as part of a broader 50-gene panel, helping you understand your inherited risk and take steps to monitor or reduce it early, with full support from expert genetic counsellors.

Who is eligible for Melanoma cancer genetic testing?

Genetic testing panels that include melanoma-associated genes may be appropriate if you have a personal or family history suggestive of a hereditary cancer syndrome.

Testing is especially recommended if you have any of these red flags:
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• Cancer diagnosed before age 50
• More than one primary cancer in the same person
• Multiple relatives affected by cancer

While testing is mainly for adults, it may also be considered in some children based on clinical and family history.
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At Jeen, we help you assess whether testing is right for you with expert support at every step.

What happens if my genetic test for Melanoma is positive?

A positive result means we’ve found a genetic change linked to higher melanoma risk. But it’s not a diagnosis, it’s an opportunity to take action.

With Jeen, you’ll meet with a genetic counsellor who will explain what the result means for you, discuss options like early screening, lifestyle changes, or preventive care, and explore whether other family members should consider testing. You’ll get clear, personalised guidance to help you plan your next steps with confidence and support.

Can genetic testing help prevent Melanoma?

Yes, genetic testing can play a key role in melanoma prevention.

By identifying inherited mutations that increase your risk, testing allows you and your healthcare team to take proactive steps like regular skin checks, early surveillance, and lifestyle changes.

Our at-home test provides accurate insights into your genetic risk, backed by expert counselling to help you understand what it means and build a personalised prevention plan that fits you.

Does a family history of Melanoma mean I should get tested?

Yes, a family history of melanoma can be a strong reason to consider genetic testing, especially if it was diagnosed in multiple relatives or before age 50. These patterns may suggest inherited risk. Even without a clear family history, testing can still uncover important insights.

At Jeen, our expert genetic counsellors review your background in detail to help decide if testing is right for you, so you can make informed, proactive choices about your health.

Can I get private Melanoma gene testing in London?

Yes, Jeen offers private genetic testing for melanoma to anyone in London and across the UK. Our at-home buccal swab kit makes it simple to collect your DNA sample, with no clinic visit needed.

We screen 50 carefully selected genes, including those linked to hereditary melanoma like CDKN2A and BAP1, using high-depth sequencing for clinical-grade accuracy. Once your results are ready, you’ll receive expert counselling to help you understand your risk and take confident next steps.

Are there risks or limitations to genetic testing for Melanoma?

Genetic testing provides valuable insights, but it does have boundaries. At Jeen, we analyse key genes linked to melanoma, but not all genetic risk factors are covered.

Some rare or complex mutations may be missed, and results can include Variants of Uncertain Significance (VUS), changes that need expert interpretation.

A negative result doesn’t eliminate all risk, especially with a family history. That’s why Jeen includes genetic counselling, to help you fully understand your results and guide your next steps with clarity and confidence.

Read more about genetic testing statistic.

How much does Melanoma genetic testing cost in the UK?

Jeen’s genetic testing for melanoma cancer is priced at £660. This all-inclusive cost covers your at-home DNA kit, lab analysis using high-depth 50x sequencing, and a personalised consultation with one of our expert genetic counsellors.

The test analyses 50 carefully chosen genes, each backed by strong scientific evidence linked to prostate cancer risk. You’ll get accurate insights into your inherited risk and support to help you decide on next steps with no extra charges or referrals needed.

How often should I be screened for Melanoma if I have a genetic mutation?

Yes, if you test positive for a BRCA mutation, your close family members should consider genetic testing too. Because BRCA mutations are inherited, your parents, siblings, and children may carry the same gene change and face a higher risk of cancers like breast and ovarian. Early testing helps them take proactive steps, such as enhanced screening or preventive care. At Jeen, our expert genetic counsellors are here to support you and your family in understanding and navigating these important next steps together.