Melanoma

Why choose us for Melanoma?

What you need to know about Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. It is considered the most serious form of skin cancer because it can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.

  • Superficial Spreading Melanoma:

    • The most common type, accounting for about 70% of cases.
    • Tends to spread across the surface of the skin.

  • Nodular Melanoma:

    • Second most common type.
    • Grows more quickly and often appears as a raised bump.

  • Lentigo Maligna Melanoma:

    • Often occurs in older adults on sun-damaged skin.
    • Develops slowly over many years.

  • Acral Lentiginous Melanoma:

    • Rare, more common in people with darker skin.
    • Appears on the palms, soles, or under the nails.

  • Amelanotic Melanoma:

    • Lacks the typical pigment, making it harder to diagnose.
    • Appears as a pink or red lesion.
  • UV Radiation: Exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun or tanning beds.
  • Genetic Factors: Family history of melanoma or genetic mutations.
  • Fair Skin: Higher risk in individuals with fair skin, light hair, and light eyes.
  • Moles: Having numerous or unusual moles.
  • Immune System Suppression: Weakened immune system increases risk.
  • Changes in existing moles: Alterations in size, shape, or color.
  • New pigmented or unusual-looking growths.
  • The ABCDE Rule:
    • Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other.
    • Border: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined border.
    • Color: Varied from one area to another.
    • Diameter: Usually greater than 6mm.
    • Evolving: Changes in size, shape, color, or symptoms such as itching or bleeding.
  • Skin Examination: Thorough examination by a dermatologist.
  • Biopsy: Removal of a sample of tissue for testing.
  • Dermatoscopy: Using a dermatoscope to examine the skin.
  • Surgery: Primary treatment for early-stage melanoma involves removing the tumor.
  • Immunotherapy: Uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
  • Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific genetic changes in melanoma cells.
  • Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
  • Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill cancer cells, less common for melanoma.
  • Early Detection: High survival rate if detected early.
  • Advanced Stages: Prognosis worsens with metastasis.
  • Individual Factors: Age, overall health, and response to treatment affect prognosis.
  • Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, seek shade, and wear protective clothing.
  • Avoid Tanning Beds: Reduce UV exposure by avoiding artificial tanning.
  • Regular Skin Checks: Self-examination and regular dermatological check-ups.
  • Protect Children: Ensure children are protected from sun exposure.
  • Localized Melanoma: The 5-year survival rate is about 99%.
  • Regional Melanoma: When cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, the 5-year survival rate is about 66%.
  • Distant Metastasis: For melanoma that has spread to distant parts of the body, the 5-year survival rate drops to about 27%.

These rates vary depending on numerous factors, including the specific characteristics of the melanoma and the overall health of the patient. Early detection and treatment significantly improve survival rates.

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