About Melanoma

There are different types of skin cancer which originate from different skin cells. The melanin in the skin gives the skin its pigmentation, or color. Cells called melanocytes make up the melanin. Melanoma is skin cancer which develops from the melanocytes. Although it is the least common skin cancer, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, melanoma causes the most skin cancer deaths each year.

Facts

• Melanoma develops in both men and women. Although it can develop anywhere on the skin, in men it is more often found on the neck, head and hips. In women it often develops on their neck and legs. Because melanomas can be seen, early detection is possible. The cancer is often curable in early stages. However advanced cases, where the cancer has spread, have a poorer prognosis.

Risk Factors

• Exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun or tanning beds is one of the main risk factors for developing melanoma, according to the American Cancer Society. Individuals who have had severe sunburns as a child are also at higher risk. People who are light skinned or have numerous freckles have a higher risk. Having a family history of the disease or having a weakened immune system also are known risk factors.

Signs

• According to the American Academy of Dermatology, there are certain indications a mole or bump may be melanoma. Moles which are asymmetrical and have uneven borders can be signs of melanoma. Another sign is uneven color throughout the mole. For example, there may be different shades of brown with black, red or pink mixed in. Moles larger than 6 mm may indicate melanoma. A mole which itches or bleeds may also be a sign. Even small changes in moles should be evaluated by a dermatologist.

Treatment

• Treatment will depend on the stage of the disease. Melanoma is staged according to the thickness of the tumor or how deep it penetrates the skin and if it has spread to other organs. Surgery will be required in all stages of the disease. Chemotherapy may be given in more advanced stages. Immunotherapy is a type of treatment used which helps stimulate the immune system to destroy the cancer cells. Radiation therapy is sometime recommended for melanoma which has spread to other organs.

Prevention

• Not all risk factors can be avoided. However, there are some ways to prevent the chances of developing melanoma. Avoid excessive exposure to the sun, especially during times when the ultraviolet rays are most intense. This is usually between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Always wear a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 15. Wear hats and sunglasses to protect from the sun. Do regular exams of the skin, checking for skin irregularities. See a dermatologist yearly or anytime you notice changes in moles.