Melanocytes is the name of the pigment present in our skin and melanoma is a condition in which cancerous cells develop on melanocytes causing Skin Cancer. It is quite different from other forms of cancer, since it can spread easily to other parts causing more damage and sometimes may be fatal. You can control the growth of melanoma by detecting it early and starting treatment immediately.
If you observe a mole in any part of the body which changes color strangely, then you should consult your doctor at once. Spots on the skin are normal and safe as long as they do not change color. It resembles the moles but these pigments are harmful.
Symptoms :
The dark spot or mole that changes its color may be indicative of melanoma. Sometimes mole may join together to form a big dark spot. These spots are irregular in shape and different from the other half.
The borders of these moles are not regular and smooth. It changes color irregularly and is different from rest of the moles and spots. The spots may be larger than other moles.
Observe for change in skin color and if it changes rapidly, you can conclude the damage is not that serious as you expected. These melanoma may be milder form and fades off within few days.
Who is at risk for getting melanoma ?
Fair complexioned, light eyed people, having more moles in the body, funny moles or larger moles are more prone to get melanoma than others. Parents or family history who has this problem have increased risk for this disorder.
Melanoma is of three types namely superficial, nodular and lentigo.
Diagnoses :
Your skin doctor may examine the spot or moles closely. He would then do a skin biopsy test wherein a small portion of the skin is cut off and analyzed for cancer. Depending on the result, your doctor may proceed with treatment.
They use dermatoscopy method for detecting the presence of melanoma.
Treatment :
Surgery is the best choice for treating melanoma. The surgeon will remove only the superficial layer of the skin that has cancerous cells if you have superficial melanoma. But more deep forms of cancer should be treated with extensive surgery.
The lymph nodes of the affected area are also removed, if the tumor has invaded deeply. Your doctor will decide the type of surgery based on your age, health condition, location in which melanoma has attacked and intensity of disease.
Immunotherapy is given to raise the immunity level to fight against cancerous growth.
Pictures of Malignant Melanoma :
Images, Pics, Pictures and Photos of Malignant Melanoma
Prevention :
You can adopt several preventive methods but still if your parents or close relatives have melanoma, you are at risk of getting it later.
Avoid going out in hot sun. Keep yourself protected from harsh sunlight by wearing hats and applying sunscreen lotion. Keep yourself away from direct sunlight and wear protective clothes, if your workplace is located in hot climate.
Observe your body (skin) regularly. If you see any noticeable changes in skin color, do not delay in consulting your dermatologist. Early detection of melanoma is helpful in curing it.
