Understanding Melanoma: Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, caused by the uncontrolled growth of melanocytes, skin cells that produce the pigment melanin. It can spread from the skin to other parts of the body and is responsible for the majority of skin cancer deaths.
FAST FACTS
1. Melanomas occur when melanocytes proliferate uncontrollably.
We all have melanocytes or skin cells that produce the pigment melanin found in the epidermis or the outer layer of skin. Melanin protects skin cells by absorbing ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Melanocytes are found in equal numbers in black and white skin, but melanocytes in black skin produce much more melanin. People with dark brown or black skin are very much less likely to be damaged by UV radiation than those with white skin.
Non-cancerous growth of melanocytes results in moles and freckles. The cancerous growth of melanocytes results in melanoma.
2. Melanoma can look very similar to moles but advance rapidly.
The first sign of melanoma is usually an unusual-looking freckle or mole. Melanoma may be detected at an early stage when it is only a few millimeters in diameter, but it may grow to several centimeters in diameter before it is diagnosed.
Melanoma is classified in three ways:
- In situ, if the tumor is confined to the epidermis or outer skin layer
- Invasive, if a cancer has spread into the dermis or inner skin layer
- Metastatic, if a tumor has spread to other tissues.
If left untreated, melanoma can aggressively spread to other parts of the body and be fatal. The thicker or deeper the melanoma, the greater the risk to the patient.
Melanoma can spread rapidly to deep tissues and lymph nodes
Take Charge of Your Skin Health Today!
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear or for something to feel off about your skin. Make your health a priority and schedule a full-body skin examination with a board-certified dermatologist. If you have any risk factors for melanoma, being proactive is essential. Early detection can save lives. We serve many areas in greater North Dallas, McKinney, Frisco, Melissa, Fairview, Lucas, Parker, The Colony, and other communities. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with the latest advancements in skin health technology and care. Contact us today at (469) 663-8838 to book your appointment—because your skin deserves the best!
3. Melanoma can occur anywhere on the body.
Most melanoma cases can be associated with exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UV), which causes a mutation in the DNA of melanocytes. This exposure can be from natural or artificial light or tanning beds. However, melanoma can present itself in parts of the body that are not exposed to the sun, such as the toe, foot, or back.
4. Some people have a greater risk of developing melanomas..
Major risk factors for melanomas include:
- Signs of sun damage on the skin
- Fair skin or blue eyes or blond hair
- Sensitivity towards sun
- A large number of moles
- History of sunburn
- History of long hours spent outdoors for work or recreation
- Compromised immune system
- Previous diagnosis of melanoma
5. Detection of melanoma requires vigilance.
Melanomas can start with a harmless-looking freckle but evolve into a more apparent spot. A melanoma may have a variety of colors including tan, dark brown, black, blue, red and occasionally, light grey. During its horizontal phase of growth, melanoma usually is flat. As the vertical phase develops, the melanoma becomes thickened and raised. Some melanomas are itchy or tender. More advanced lesions may bleed easily or crust over.
Most melanomas have characteristics described by the Glasgow 7-point checklist
- Major features
- Change in size
- Irregular shape
- Irregular color
- Minor features
- Diameter >7 mm
- Inflammation
- Oozing
- Change in sensation
Dermatologists recommend using a 5-dimensional A-B-C-D-E scale to examine your skin for suspect spots and identify those that could be melanomas.
A: Asymmetry of shape and color
B: Border irregularity including smudgy or ill-defined margin
C: Color variation and Change
D: Diameter (formerly diameter)
E: Evolving (enlarging, changing)
Individuals with high risk based on risk factors are advised to get their skin examined by a board-certified dermatologist at least once a year. The dermatologist performs a full body skin exam and pays special attention to suspicious spots using dermoscopy. A biopsy may be performed on suspicious lesions.
6. Surgical excision at an early stage is key.
The treatment of melanomas generally involves surgically removing and cutting out malignant cells. If the melanoma has not matured to a large degree, it is generally located in the epidermis layer. The aggressiveness of the treatment depends upon the size of the cancer, its location, how long you have had the tumor, and how much scarring is likely to occur with the treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Melanoma
What is melanoma?
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops in melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, which gives skin its color. It is considered the most aggressive form of skin cancer, but it is highly treatable if detected early. Our team at Bluebonnet Dermatology in McKinney, Texas, specializes in providing comprehensive care to diagnose and effectively treat melanoma.
Is melanoma only caused by UV exposure?
No. While ultraviolet (UV) exposure from the sun or even tanning beds significantly increases the risk of developing melanoma, other factors also contribute to this risk. These include genetics, having a personal or family history of skin cancer, or possessing numerous moles. We encourage regular skin checks to monitor any changes, regardless of sun exposure habits.
How can I tell if a mole might be melanoma?
You can use the ABCDE rule to assess moles. A represents asymmetry, B for border irregularity, C for color variation, D for diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and E for an evolving shape, size, or color. If you notice any of these features, book an appointment with Bluebonnet Dermatology right away for a thorough evaluation.
Does melanoma only develop on sun-exposed areas of the skin?
Melanoma can develop anywhere on the body, even in areas that might not receive as much sun exposure, such as the soles of the feet, the palms of the hands, or under the nails. We always emphasize the importance of full-body skin exams to ensure that no potential issues are overlooked.
Can people with darker skin tones develop melanoma?
Yes, individuals of all skin tones can develop melanoma. Although individuals with lighter skin are at higher risk, melanoma in those with darker skin tones often occurs in less obvious areas, such as the nails and the soles of the feet. Dr. Huayi Zhang urges everyone, regardless of their skin color, to prioritize routine skin health check-ups.
Is melanoma hereditary?
Yes, a family history of melanoma might actually increase your risk. If someone in your immediate family has been diagnosed with melanoma, you should schedule regular skin checks. The specialists at our practice can provide genetic counseling and help you stay proactive in prevention and monitoring.
How is melanoma diagnosed?
Melanoma is diagnosed through a skin examination and a biopsy of any suspicious lesion. Our skilled dermatologist at Bluebonnet Dermatology will carefully examine your skin and recommend appropriate testing to confirm whether a mole or lesion is melanoma.
What treatments are available for melanoma?
Treatment for melanoma depends on the stage and severity of the cancer. Options may include surgical excision, immunotherapy, or targeted drug therapy. Dr. Huayi Zhang at Bluebonnet Dermatology creates personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient to ensure the best possible outcome.
How can I reduce my risk of melanoma?
There are many ways to reduce your risk of developing melanoma. This includes wearing sunscreen daily, avoiding tanning beds, seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, and examining your skin monthly for any changes. We recommend scheduling annual professional skin exams with Dr. Huayi Zhang to catch potential issues early.
What should I do if I suspect I have melanoma?
If you suspect melanoma, do not wait to act. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Huayi Zhang at Bluebonnet Dermatology. Her team performs a detailed skin assessment, conducts necessary biopsies, and discusses next steps to ensure you receive expert care promptly. Early detection saves lives, so taking action quickly is vital.
Our dermatologist has years of training, certification, and experience in various minimally invasive surgical dermatology procedures to treat your melanoma. We utilize the latest technology and innovation in skin surgery. Most patients experience a full recovery and minimal scarring and get back.
