Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that originates from melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing the pigment melanin. It is considered the most aggressive and deadly form of skin cancer. Understanding the causes, risk factors and early detection of melanoma is crucial for effective prevention and treatment.
Causes
- Ultraviolet (UV) radiation: Exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds is a primary cause of melanoma
- Genetic factors: Certain gene mutations can increase the risk of developing melanoma
- Familial history
Risk factors
- Fair skin: People with fair skin, light hair, and light eye color are at a higher risk due to decreased melanin protection
- Freckles and moles: The presence of numerous moles or atypical moles (dysplastic nevi) increases the risk of melanoma
- Sunburns: A history of severe sunburns, especially during childhood, raises the risk of developing melanoma.
- Weakened immune system: Immunosuppressed individuals, such as organ transplant recipients have an elevated risk.
Signs and symptoms
- Asymmetry: One half of a mole or spot does not match the other half
- Irregular borders: The edges of a mole are not smooth and may appear jagged or blurred
- Varied colours: Melanomas often exhibit a mix of colors, including shades of brown, black, red, blue or white
- Diameter: Melanomas are typically larger in diameter than a pencil eraser (more than 6 mm)
- Evolving: Any changes in size, shape, color or elevation of a mole should be monitored closely
Stages of melanoma
Melanoma is classified into stages based on its thickness, level of invasion and spread.
Stage 0: Melanoma is confined to the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis) and has not invaded deeper layers.
Stage I and II: The melanoma has penetrated deeper into the skin but has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant sites.
Stage III: Melanoma has spread to nearby lymph nodes but not to distant organs.
Stage IV: The cancer has spread to distant organs or lymph nodes far from the original tumor site.
Diagnosis and treatment options
Diagnosis: A biopsy is needed to confirm the presence of melanoma. Various imaging tests can be conducted to assess the extent of the disease.
The primary treatment for localized melanoma involves surgical excision of the tumor and nearby lymph nodes if necessary.
Immunotherapy: These treatments boost the body’s immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells.
Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific gene mutations are used for advanced melanoma with specific genetic alterations.
Radiation therapy: High-energy radiation is used to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.
Chemotherapy: Although less commonly used for melanoma, certain drugs may be prescribed in cases of advanced or metastatic disease.
Prevention and early detection
Regularly using sunscreen, seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds can reduce the risk of melanoma.
Self-examination: Individuals should perform regular skin self-exams to detect any changes in moles or the appearance of new ones.
Regular check-ups: Consulting a dermatologist for routine skin examinations is crucial, especially for individuals at higher risk.
It is important to consult a dermatologist or a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis so treatment can be started.
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