Skin Cancer (Melanoma)
All Type of Cancers
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About Skin Cancer (Melanoma)
Melanoma is a serious type of skin cancer that develops in pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. It can spread rapidly to other parts of the body if not detected early. This condition is more common in people with prolonged sun exposure or a history of tanning bed use. Better treatment options and higher survival rates are the results of medical research advancements. Regular skin checks and awareness can help in early detection and prevention.
Causes of Skin Cancer (Melanoma)
Melanoma occurs when melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) grow uncontrollably, often due to DNA damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Excessive sun exposure without protection and frequent use of tanning beds significantly increase the risk. Fair skin, light-colored eyes, and a history of sunburns make individuals more susceptible. Genetic factors and a family history of melanoma can also contribute to its development. Additionally, having many moles or atypical (irregular) moles increases the likelihood of melanoma forming. Protecting skin from UV rays and regular skin checks can help in prevention.
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Symptoms of Skin Cancer (Melanoma)
- New or Changing Moles – A mole that grows in size, changes color, or develops irregular borders.
- Asymmetry – One half of the mole looks different from the other half.
- Unusual Colors – Moles with multiple shades of brown, black, red, blue, or white.
- Itching, Pain, or Bleeding – A mole or skin lesion that becomes tender, crusty, or starts to bleed.
- Large or Irregular Borders – Moles larger than 6mm (pencil eraser size) or with uneven edges.
Diagnosis of Skin Cancer (Melanoma)
A doctor checks for lumps or unusual changes in the breast.Melanoma is diagnosed through a combination of physical examination and specialized tests, including:
- Skin Examination – A doctor inspects suspicious moles or lesions using the ABCDE rule (Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolution).
- Dermatoscopy – A special magnifying tool helps examine skin spots more closely.
- Skin Biopsy – A small sample of the suspicious mole or tissue is removed and analyzed for cancer cells.
- Lymph Node Biopsy – If melanoma is advanced, nearby lymph nodes may be tested for cancer spread.
- Imaging Tests (CT, MRI, or PET Scan) – Used to detect whether melanoma has spread to other organs.
Treatment of Skin Cancer (Melanoma)
Treatment for melanoma depends on the stage of cancer, tumor size, and spread. Common treatment options include:
- Surgery: The primary treatment, involving removal of the melanoma and some surrounding healthy tissue.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays target and destroy cancer cells, often used if surgery isn’t an option.
- Chemotherapy: Used in rare cases when melanoma has spread and other treatments aren’t effective.
- Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system to help fight advanced melanoma.
- Targeted Therapy: Uses drugs to block specific gene mutations in melanoma cells.