Medical Information on Melanoma Skin Cancer

Melanoma is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells in the body that produce the skin pigment called melanin. Melanoma is most associated with the skin, though it can occur in other body organs, such as the eyes or intestines. In 2008, the National Cancer Institute reported 62,480 new cases of melanoma and 8,420 fatalities. These numbers seem to be on the rise, especially in southern parts of the United States, such as Texas, where ultraviolet light from the sun is stronger.

Melanoma Skin Cancer

• Melanoma skin cancer occurs in the body when cells producing melanin, called melanocytes, become malignant. Melanoma that affects the skin is referred to as cutaneous melanoma. Melanoma is one of the most common types of cancer, and it affects more light-skinned people than those with darker complexions. Although anyone can develop melanoma, older people are more susceptible.

Risk Factors

• There are common risk factors that contribute to a person's likelihood of developing melanoma skin cancer. If you have fair skin and are prone to burning and freckling, you could be more at risk. Likewise, if you have more than 50 moles on your body, especially if they are abnormal in appearance, you could be more susceptible. Melanoma can also run in families, so tell your doctor about any close relatives who've had this type of skin cancer. Too much exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun can also increase your chances of melanoma, especially if you've ever suffered a burn or blistering as a result.

Signs and Symptoms

• You might first suspect melanoma if you notice a change in the way one of your moles looks or feels. Malignant moles often have an asymmetrical appearance and an area that is bluish-black in color. There is often no definitive border to the mole and the pigment may appear to spread. Likewise, the color of the mole itself may fluctuate from brown to black to tan. Malignant moles are usually bigger than the diameter of a pencil eraser. If one of your moles is crusty, scaling or begins to itch or bleed, be sure to have it examined.

Diagnoses and Treatment

• If your doctor suspects melanoma, he will perform a biopsy by removing the entire growth or taking a sample of the tissue. This can often be done under local anesthetic in the doctor's office in little time. Your doctor will send the sample to be evaluated by a pathologist. If the pathologist determines you have melanoma, you and your doctor will discuss treatment options. These treatments might include surgery, chemotherapy radiation or any combination of the three.

Prevention

• There are a few precautions you can take to reduce your risk of developing melanoma as a result of ultraviolet radiation. Avoid the sun when it is at its strongest, usually 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Protect your skin as much as possible by wearing shirts with long sleeves and long pants. Likewise, wear a wide-brimmed hat. Choose a sunscreen with "broad spectrum coverage" and apply it both in the summer and winter. Remember, snow and ice reflects ultraviolet radiation on to your skin.
  Check your moles on a regular basis. After a shower, complete a thorough skin check, paying careful attention to any moles that have changed in size or appearance, as well as to new mole growth. Don't forget to check your palms, the soles of your feet, your scalp, your genital region and any other out-of-the-way places, where changes may not be noticed. By performing regular checks, you will be better able to determine when a mole looks abnormal.