Signs of Melanoma (Skin cancer)

Description

Melanoma is the most dangerous skin cancer. The cancer comes from an abnormal growth of cells that produce skin pigment (melanocytes). Exposure to the sun or tanning beds increases one's risk of the disorder. Early detection and treatment enables the cancer to be removed before it spreads (metastasizes). Once the tumor has spread to lymph nodes and other organs the cure rate becomes very low frequently resulting in death. The American Cancer Society recommends professional skin exams every year for people older than 40, and every 3 years for people aged 20 - 40. Besides the skin these tumors can occur in the eyes and rarely in the intestines.

Symptoms

Skin mass, a mole that changes in color or size, bleeding from a mole, tenderness. The ABCDs of melanoma can help one detect a melanoma: Asymmetry (one half is different than the other half), Borders (edges are notched, uneven, or blurred), Color (color is uneven with shades of brown, tan, and black), Diameter (larger than 6mm - the size of a pencil eraser).

Tests

A history and physical will be done. Any suspicious skin lesions will be biopsied. Other tests including blood and imaging may be done if the tumor is felt to have spread.

Standard Workup

Skin biopsy

Treatment

The tumors need to be surgically removed, and the amount of skin and tissue that is removed depends on the size and depth of the cancer. A lymph node biopsy may be done to determine if the cancer has spread to the adjacent lymph nodes. For tumors that have spread other treatment may be recommended including: chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation treatment and/or interferon.