Melanoma 101: What You Need to Know

Melanoma 101 brings clarity to melanoma's complexity, designed to help us all better understand the disease.
Melissa Wilson, PA-C, MPAS, Melanoma Lead with UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and AIM at Melanoma Foundation's medical expert explores everything you need to know - from melanoma screening and prevention, how to handle a melanoma diagnosis, understanding one’s treatment options, and far, far more - all brought to you by AIM at Melanoma Foundation.
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Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops from the pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. It is considered one of the most aggressive forms of skin cancer and can spread rapidly to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early. In this essay, we will explore everything you need to know about melanoma, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention strategies.
One of the primary causes of melanoma is excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Prolonged exposure to UV rays damages the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations that can trigger uncontrolled cell growth and eventually result in cancerous tumors. Other risk factors for developing melanoma include having fair skin, a history of sunburns or intense sun exposure during childhood, a family history of melanoma, and having many moles or atypical moles.
The symptoms of melanoma can vary depending on the stage and location of the cancer. The most common sign is a new mole or an existing mole that changes in size, shape, color, or texture. Melanomas may also appear as dark lesions with irregular borders or as small nodules with an asymmetrical appearance. Additionally, they can be itchy or painful and may bleed easily.
Diagnosing melanoma typically involves a combination of visual examination by a dermatologist and performing a biopsy on suspicious-looking moles or lesions. During a biopsy procedure, a small sample of tissue is removed for laboratory analysis to determine whether it contains cancerous cells. If melanoma is confirmed through biopsy results, further tests such as imaging scans may be conducted to assess whether the cancer has spread beyond the skin.
Treatment options for melanoma depend on various factors such as the stage and location of the cancer as well as individual patient characteristics. Surgery is often used for early-stage melanomas, where the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue are removed. In more advanced cases, additional treatments such as immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or radiation therapy may be recommended to destroy cancer cells or slow down their growth.
Prevention plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of developing melanoma. It is essential to protect your skin from excessive sun exposure by seeking shade during peak hours, wearing protective clothing such as long sleeves and wide-brimmed hats, and applying sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) regularly. Avoiding tanning beds is also recommended since they emit harmful UV radiation that can increase the risk of melanoma.
Regular self-examination of your skin is another important preventive measure. By familiarizing yourself with your moles and paying attention to any changes in their appearance, you can detect potential signs of melanoma early on. If you notice any suspicious moles or lesions, it is crucial to consult a dermatologist promptly for further evaluation.
Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that requires awareness and proactive measures for prevention and early detection. Understanding its causes, recognizing its symptoms, seeking medical attention when necessary, and adopting sun-safe behaviors are all vital steps in reducing the risk of developing this aggressive disease. By taking these precautions seriously and spreading awareness about melanoma within our communities, we can contribute to saving lives and promoting healthier skin practices for everyone.