Ask About Our Skin Cancer Center at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta
Melanoma is one of the three types of skin cancer, along with basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Melanoma begins in the melanocytes, cells within the skin that create the pigment known as melanin that gives the skin its color. The condition typically develops in areas of the skin that are most often exposed to the sun, including the arms, legs, face, and back. However, melanoma can occur in areas that are not typically exposed to sunlight.
Although melanoma only accounts for roughly 1% of all skin cancer cases, it is the cause of the majority of skin cancer-related deaths. This is why awareness, prevention, and early detection are so critical.
Melanoma Causes:
Melanoma occurs when healthy melanocytes mutate and transform into cancerous cells. This mutation that occurs within the DNA of each cell can create a surplus of cell creation that leads to the formation of a tumor that grows and destroys healthy body tissue. Experts have not determined the exact cause of this cellular mutation that leads to melanoma, but they have been linked to a combination of factors that include exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light.
Melanoma Diagnosis:
The first signs and symptoms of melanoma are typically the formation of a new or unusual growth or spot on the skin, or a noticeable change to an existing mole or lesion. Our experts like to remind patients of the ABCDE method of detecting a potential melanoma. This stands for:
Melanoma Treatments:
Asymmetry – One half of the mole is different looking than the other
Border – The spot has an irregular or poorly defined border
Color – The mole varies in color, which can include shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue
Diameter – Most melanomas have a diameter greater than 6 millimeters
Evolution – The mole or spot experiences noticeable changes in size, shape, or color over time
While not typical, some cases of melanoma can occur in areas that are not often exposed to sunlight, including the soles of the feet, palms of the hands, and fingernail beds. Melanoma can also develop inside the body. This is known as a hidden melanoma. Much like with basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, melanomas are diagnosed by using a physical exam and a biopsy.
Melanoma Treatments:
Treatment for melanoma depends on the severity and extent of each individual case. In the large majority of cases, melanoma is treated with surgery. The procedure involves surgically removing the cancerous lesion, as well as some of the healthy skin around it with excision, or using Mohs surgery in some instances. In many cases, the procedure can be performed under local anesthesia in our office or surgical center. Some more advanced cases may require other treatments including additional surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.
For more information on melanoma and our available treatment options, please contact Dermatology Associates of Atlanta today.
