melanoma

Melanoma can spread quickly to lymph nodes and distant organs, making early treatment critical. When caught early, melanoma is highly treatable, but advanced cases require more complex treatments and have lower survival rates.

Treatment depends on the stage of melanoma and may include surgical excision, lymph node biopsies, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or chemotherapy for advanced cases. A dermatologist or oncologist will determine the best approach based on individual needs.

No. Melanoma requires professional medical treatment. Delaying treatment increases the risk of the cancer spreading, making early diagnosis and intervention essential for survival.

Yes, melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer. If not detected and treated early, it can spread to other organs, making it difficult to treat and potentially fatal.

Yes, having a family history of melanoma increases the risk. Certain inherited genetic mutations can also make individuals more susceptible to developing melanoma.

Costs vary depending on the stage of melanoma and the treatment required. Early-stage treatment may involve only surgical excision, while advanced cases may require additional therapies, increasing costs. Our office provides insurance verification and estimates for out-of-pocket expenses.

Yes, melanoma can return, particularly within the first three years after treatment. Regular skin checks with a dermatologist are crucial for monitoring for recurrence or new melanomas.

When detected early, melanoma is often curable with minimal long-term effects. However, advanced melanoma can lead to serious health complications, ongoing medical treatments, and, in some cases, can be life-threatening.

Melanoma itself is usually painless, but as it grows, it may cause tenderness, itching, or irritation. Any new or changing skin lesion should be evaluated, even if it is not painful.

No. Melanoma does not resolve without treatment. If left untreated, it will continue to grow and may spread, becoming more difficult to treat. Early detection and prompt removal are essential.

The ABCDEs are key warning signs for identifying potential melanoma:

• Asymmetry – One half of the mole does not match the other.
• Border – Edges are irregular, notched, or blurred.
• Color – Uneven shades of brown, black, red, blue, or white.
• Diameter – Larger than 6 mm (size of a pencil eraser), though melanomas can be smaller.
• Evolving – Changes in size, shape, or color, or new symptoms like bleeding or itching.

If a mole or skin lesion exhibits any of these signs, it should be evaluated by a board-certified dermatologist. For more information visit the American Academy of Dermatology.