Melanoma

Melanoma is a cancer of the pigment producing cells in the skin, known as melanocytes. Normal melanocytes reside in the outer layer of the skin and produce the brown pigment melanin, which is responsible for the color of our skin. Melanoma is when melanocytes become cancerous, grow, and invade other tissues. This is one of the most severe forms of skin cancer, and if left untreated will be fatal.

Melanoma:  What it Looks Like

While only 4% of diagnosed skin cancer is melanoma, melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer because of its ability to spread. This is why it is so important to catch melanoma early when the cure rate with dermatological surgery is about 95%.

Where Occurs
Melanoma can appear anywhere on the body — soles, palms, inside the mouth, genitalia, and underneath nails. However, it is most commonly found on the back, buttocks, legs, scalp, neck, and behind the ears.

Warning signs
Melanoma often develops in a pre-existing mole that begins to change or a new mole. It is estimated that 20% to 40% of melanomas arise from an atypical mole. This is why it is so important to be familiar with the moles on your body and perform regular self-examinations of your skin. When looking at moles, keep in mind the ABCDEs of Melanoma Detection:

1.       Asymmetry. If you could fold the lesion in two, the two halves would not match.

2.       Border. Melanomas often have uneven or blurred borders.

3.       Color. Melanoma typically is not one solid color; rather it contains mixed shades of tan, brown, and black.  It can also show traces of red, blue or white.

4.       Diameter. While melanomas are usually greater than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser) when diagnosed, they can be smaller. If you notice a mole different from others, or which changes, itches, or bleeds even if it is smaller than 6 millimeters, you should see a dermatologist.

 

Can you spot a potentially deadly melanoma? Chances are your dermatologist can.

A recent study showed that the majority of all melanomas (the deadliest form of skin cancer) were discovered by dermatologists.

Dermatologists detected more than 56 percent of the melanomas found in a survey of 126 skin cancer patients, according to the Archives of Dermatology. Through the use of full-body skin exams, dermatologists were also more likely than patients to detect melanomas at an earlier stage, when they are thinner, and more easily treated.