Malignant Melanoma Treatment
Malignant Melanoma is most deadly of all skin cancers.
Every year, an estimated 7,700 Americans will die form
melanoma; it is projected that more than 46,000 Americans
will develop melanoma annually. The death rate is declining
because melanoma is ususally curable when detected in its
early states and patients are seeking help sooner.
Melanoma begins in melanocytes, the skin cells that produce
the dark protective pigment called melanin which makes
the skin tan. Since melanoma cells usually continue to
produce melanin, the cancer appears in mixed shades of
tan, brown, and black although it can also be red or white.
Melanoma can metastasize (spread), making treatment essential.
Melanoma may appear suddenly or begin in or near a mole,
or another dark spot in the skin. It is important to know
the location and appearance of the moles on the body to
detect changes early. Any changing mole must be examined
by a dermatologist. Early melanoma can be removed while
still in the curable stage.
Excessive sun exposure, especially sunburn, is the most
important preventable cause of melanoma. Light-skinned
individuals are at particular risk. Heredity also plays
a part. A persons has an increased chance of developing
melanoma if a relative or close family member has had melanoma.
Atypical moles (dysplastic nevi), which may run in families,
and a large number of moles, can serve as markers for people
at increased risk for developing melanoma.
Dark skin is not a guarantee against melanoma. People
with skin of color can develop melanoma, especially on
the palms, soles, under the nails, in the mouth, or on
the gentils.
Click
on the links below to find out more information about
other types of skin cancer.
|
|
| Warning
signs of Melanoma include: |
| Changes
in the surface of a mole. |
| Scaliness,
oozing, bleeding, or the apperance of a new bump. |
| Spread
of pigment from the border of a mole into surrounding
skin. |
| Change
in sensatin including itchiness, tenderness, or pain. |
Click here to learn the
ABCDs of Melanoma |
