Cutaneous melanoma is a highly malignant tumour of the melanocytes presenting characteristic metabolic and biological features. Early detection decreases mortality and morbidity and provides the best chance for optimal clinical management. Imaging techniques, including scintigraphy, have assumed an important role in detection strategies. As a functional modality, nuclear medicine offers a variety of possibilities to assist in the clinical management of malignant melanoma. This review discusses the clinical aspects and treatment of melanoma, and the imaging techniques used for its diagnosis, staging and follow-up. A survey of currently available techniques is presented.