melanoma
melanoma images
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, with its potential to be life-threatening by spreading to other parts of the body if not caught early. Despite being the least common skin cancer, its diagnosis rate has been increasing rapidly, making awareness and early detection crucial. Melanoma originates in the melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin pigmentation, and it can start in an existing mole or appear as a new, unusual growth. The keys to surviving Melanoma are early diagnosis and prompt treatment. Advanced Melanoma may spread to lymph nodes and distant organs, necessitating more complex treatments despite lower survival rates.
Factors that increase the risk of developing Melanoma include a family history of the condition, fair skin prone to freckling, a significant number of moles or unusual moles, extensive sun exposure, a history of sunburns, especially in childhood, and a compromised immune system. Melanoma can appear at any age but is most common in middle age. It's noteworthy that the use of tanning beds can also increase Melanoma risk significantly.
This type of cancer can develop in sun-exposed areas as well as less exposed sites, including the eye, mouth, and genitals. The ABCDE checklist is a useful guide for identifying suspicious moles that may indicate Melanoma, focusing on asymmetry, border irregularities, color variation, diameter larger than 6 mm, and evolving changes over time.
Diagnosis involves a skin biopsy, where a small skin sample is examined microscopically. If Melanoma is confirmed, treatment typically includes surgical removal along with possible lymph node examination and imaging studies. Ongoing surveillance is critical for those who have been treated for Melanoma, given the heightened risk of recurrence. At Revelus Dermatology, we emphasize the importance of skin health education and are committed to providing comprehensive care for early detection and treatment of Melanoma, aiming for the best possible outcomes for our patients.
safety 
