Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops from the pigment-producing cells in the skin, called melanocytes. It is one of the most aggressive forms of skin cancer and can spread very quickly to other organs.

However, if detected early, it is highly treatable.

Causes of Melanoma

The primary cause of melanoma is overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This radiation can come from the sun, tanning beds, and other sources of artificial light. Other risk factors for melanoma include:.

Fair skin
Family history of melanoma
Multiple moles on the body
Personal history of skin cancer
Weakened immune system

Symptoms of Melanoma

The first sign of melanoma is often a change in the size, shape, or color of a mole. It is important to remember the “ABCDE” rule when examining moles:.

A– Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half
B– Border: The edges of the mole are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred
C– Color: The color of the mole is not the same throughout or has different shades of brown, black, or even pink, red, white, or blue
D– Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 mm or about the size of a pencil eraser
E– Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color over time

Other symptoms of melanoma include:.

A sore that does not heal
A lump or thickening of the skin
Redness or swelling beyond the border of the mole
Tenderness or pain in the mole
Itching, oozing, or bleeding from the mole

Prevention of Melanoma

The best way to prevent melanoma is to protect your skin from UV radiation. Here are some tips to keep your skin safe:.

Avoid the sun during the peak hours of 10 am to 4 pm
Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, hats, and sunglasses
Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating
Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps

Diagnosis of Melanoma

If you notice any changes in your skin or moles, see a dermatologist right away. The dermatologist will perform a skin exam and may order a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of melanoma.

During a biopsy, a small piece of skin is removed and examined under a microscope for cancer cells.

Treatment of Melanoma

The treatment of melanoma depends on several factors, including the size and depth of the tumor, the stage of the cancer, and the patient’s overall health. Treatment options include:.

Surgery: The tumor is removed surgically, along with a margin of healthy tissue around it. In some cases, nearby lymph nodes may also be removed.
Radiation therapy: High-energy x-rays are used to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.
Immunotherapy: Drugs are used to boost the body’s immune system to help fight cancer cells.
Chemotherapy: Drugs are used to kill cancer cells, but may also harm healthy cells in the body.

Conclusion

Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that can be life-threatening if not detected early. It is important to protect your skin from UV radiation and to check your skin regularly for any changes or suspicious moles.

If you notice any changes, see a dermatologist right away for evaluation and possible biopsy.