Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin. It is one of the most serious forms of skin cancer and can spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early. Melanoma often appears as a new mole or a change in an existing mole. Understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for melanoma is crucial for early detection and effective management.

Causes of Melanoma

The exact cause of melanoma is often unknown, but several factors may increase the risk, including:

• Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or tanning beds
• Fair skin, freckling, or light-colored eyes
• History of sunburns or blistering sunburns, especially during childhood
• Family history of melanoma or other skin cancers
• Presence of many moles or atypical moles (dysplastic nevi)
• Weak immune system, such as from HIV/AIDS or organ transplantation
• Previous history of melanoma or other skin cancers

Symptoms of Melanoma

Melanoma may appear as:

• A new mole
• A change in an existing mole, such as in size, shape, color, or texture
• An irregular or asymmetrical mole
• A mole with uneven or jagged borders
• A mole with multiple colors or shades
• A mole that is larger than a pencil eraser (6mm)
• A mole that itches, bleeds, or becomes painful

Diagnosis of Melanoma

Diagnosing melanoma typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, including:

• Visual inspection of the skin and moles
• Dermatoscopy (skin surface microscopy) to examine the structure and patterns of moles
• Skin biopsy to obtain a tissue sample for laboratory analysis
• Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to assess the extent of cancer spread (metastasis)

Treatment Options for Melanoma

Treatment for melanoma depends on various factors, including the stage, thickness, and location of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences. Treatment options may include:

• Surgical excision to remove the melanoma and a margin of healthy tissue
• Mohs surgery for certain types of melanoma or locations where tissue preservation is critical
• Immunotherapy to boost the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells
• Targeted therapy to attack specific molecules or pathways involved in cancer growth
• Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors
• Radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells or relieve symptoms
• Biologic therapy to stimulate the body's natural defenses against cancer
• Palliative care to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life for advanced or metastatic melanoma