Melanoma is a highly aggressive and deadly form of skin cancer, which often develops from abnormal moles.

The incidence of melanoma is increasing worldwide, particularly in countries with fair-skinned populations and high sun exposure, such as Australia, New Zealand, and Scandinavia. However, melanoma can occur in people of any age, ethnicity, and skin type, and it is one of the most common cancers in young adults.

What is Melanoma?

Melanoma is a type of cancer that develops in the melanocytes, which are the cells that produce pigment (melanin) in the skin.

Melanoma can arise in any part of the body that contains melanocytes, including the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes, such as the mouth, genitals, and anus. However, cutaneous melanoma, which is the most common form of melanoma, develops on the skin surface.

What causes Melanoma?

The primary cause of melanoma is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which damages the DNA in the cells and triggers mutations that lead to cancer.

UV radiation is a natural component of sunlight and tanning beds, and it increases the risk of melanoma by causing sunburns, tans, and premature aging of the skin.

What are the Symptoms of Melanoma?

The early signs of melanoma may be subtle and easily overlooked, but they usually involve changes in the size, shape, color, or texture of a mole or freckle, or the appearance of a new growth on the skin.

The ABCDE rule is often used to identify the warning signs of melanoma:.

A: Asymmetry – Melanoma is often irregular or asymmetrical in shape, and one half may differ from the other half
B: Border – Melanoma often has an irregular, blurred, or jagged border
C: Color – Melanoma may have multiple colors, such as black, brown, tan, red, white, or blue, or different shades of these colors
D: Diameter – Melanoma is usually larger than 6 mm in diameter, but it can be smaller or larger
E: Evolution – Melanoma may change in size, shape, color, or elevation over time, or it may itch, bleed, or crust

How is Melanoma Diagnosed?

If you notice any changes in your skin that could be melanoma, you should see a dermatologist or other qualified healthcare provider as soon as possible.

The diagnosis of melanoma usually involves a physical examination of the skin with a dermatoscope or other imaging device, a biopsy of the suspicious area of the skin, and a comprehensive medical history and evaluation of risk factors.

What are the Stages of Melanoma?

The stage of melanoma depends on how far it has spread from the original site to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, bones, liver, lungs, brain, or other organs.

The staging system for melanoma is based on the thickness and depth of the tumor, the presence or absence of ulceration, and the number and location of lymph nodes that are affected.

Stage 0: Melanoma in situ – The cancer cells are confined to the epidermis, the top layer of skin
Stage I: Localized melanoma – The tumor is less than or equal to 2 mm thick and has not spread to the lymph nodes or other organs
Stage II: Regional melanoma – The tumor is thicker than 2 mm or has ulceration, and it may or may not have spread to nearby lymph nodes
Stage III: Advanced melanoma – The cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or nearby tissues but not to distant organs
Stage IV: Metastatic melanoma – The cancer has spread to distant organs or lymph nodes or returned after treatment

How is Melanoma Treated?

The treatment of melanoma depends on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the overall health and preferences of the patient. The main treatment options for melanoma include:.

Surgical excision – The tumor is removed with a surgical knife or laser, with or without lymph node dissection or skin grafting
Immunotherapy – Drugs are used to stimulate the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells
Targeted therapy – Drugs are used to target specific molecules or pathways that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells
Radiation therapy – High-energy rays are used to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors, especially in advanced or palliative cases
Complementary and alternative therapies – Natural or integrative approaches may be used to reduce stress, improve quality of life, and support immune function, such as yoga, meditation, acupuncture, or herbal supplements

How to Prevent Melanoma?

The best way to prevent melanoma is to practice sun safety measures, such as:.

Avoiding direct sun exposure during peak hours, usually between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM
Wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, hats, and sunglasses
Using sunscreen with SPF of at least 30, and reapplying it every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating
Avoiding tanning beds and sunlamps, which emit UV rays that are more harmful than natural sunlight
Checking your skin regularly for changes and consulting a healthcare provider if you notice anything suspicious

Conclusion

Early detection of melanoma is vital for improving the prognosis and survival of the patients.

It is important to be aware of the risk factors, warning signs, and preventive measures of melanoma, and to seek medical attention promptly if you suspect any abnormalities in your skin. By working together with healthcare professionals and adopting a healthy lifestyle, we can reduce the incidence and impact of melanoma on our health and well-being.