What does the prefix Melan/o- specifically denote?

The prefix Melan/o- specifically denotes "color," particularly referring to the dark pigment known as melanin, which is responsible for coloration in skin, hair, and eyes. In medical terminology, this prefix is often associated with conditions related to pigmentation, such as melanoma, which is a type of skin cancer arising from melanocyte cells that produce melanin. Understanding this prefix allows healthcare professionals to better interpret medical conditions and terminology related to skin color and pigmentation disorders.