Melanoma

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. It starts in melanocytes, the cells that produce skin pigment, and if it is not found and treated early it can spread to other parts of the body.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the main cause. People with fair skin, a history of sunburns or many moles have a higher risk. Sun protection is an important part of prevention, but once melanoma has been diagnosed, there is no substitute for treatment.

Melanoma is highly treatable when it is caught early, and early detection greatly improves the chance of a complete cure. Treatment depends on the stage and may include surgery, immunotherapy or radiation. These treatments can have side effects and can be physically demanding. Recovery also varies: removing an early-stage melanoma may heal within days, while advanced cases can need more extensive surgery and a longer recovery.

Know the ABCDEs of melanoma: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than 6 millimeters, and Evolution, meaning a change in size, shape or color. Any new, changing or suspicious mole should be checked by a dermatologist.

• Melanoma treatment at Team Dermatology
• Mohs surgery