What is Melanoma ?

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that begins in the melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin - the pigment that gives skin its color.

While melanoma is less common than other forms of skin cancer, it is significantly more dangerous due to its potential to spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.

Melanoma Treatment in Nanakramguda, Hyderabad typically involves surgical removal of the tumor, and depending on the stage, may also include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or radiation. Early detection remains key to successful outcomes, making regular skin checks and dermatologist visits essential.

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Melanoma treatment usually involves surgery and chemotherapy.

Symptoms

Signs and Symptoms of Melanoma

Changes in Existing Moles: One of the most common signs is a change in an existing mole or the appearance of a new growth on the skin. Key warning signs are captured by the ABCDE rule:.

Signs and symptoms of Melanoma may include:

• Asymmetry : One half of the mole doesn’t match the other.
• Border: : Irregular or jagged borders.
• Color: Uneven or multiple colors within the mole (black, brown, tan, red, white, or blue).
• Diameter : The mole is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
• Evolving : The mole changes in size, shape, or color over time.

When to See a Doctor

Make an appointment with your doctor if you have any signs or symptoms that worry you.

Causes

Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation :The primary cause of melanoma is overexposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds. UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, increasing the risk of skin cancer.

Fair Skin :People with lighter skin that burns easily, especially those with blonde or red hair and blue or green eyes, are at higher risk.

Family History: Having a family member with melanoma increases the likelihood of developing the condition, suggesting a genetic component.

Previous Skin Cancer :A personal history of skin cancer, especially non-melanoma skin cancers, can increase the risk..

Moles or Unusual Skin Lesions:People with many moles, large moles, or atypical (dysplastic) moles are at greater risk.

Types of Melanoma

The type of cell where the cancer begins determines the type of Melanoma you have and helps your doctor determine which treatments are best for you. Melanoma types include:

• Superficial Spreading Melanoma:Tends to grow slowly on the surface of the skin but can become invasive over time. Appears as a flat or slightly raised, irregularly shaped mole with uneven color.
• Nodular Melanoma:More aggressive and grows rapidly. Often appears as a raised bump or nodule that can be black, blue, or red. Tends to develop on sun-exposed areas like the head, neck, or torso.
• Lentigo Maligna Melanoma: Often found in older adults, particularly on sun-damaged skin such as the face, neck, or arms.Begins as a flat, irregularly shaped, and pigmented area (like a freckle) that gradually changes in size and color.

Risk Factors

Factors that can increase your risk of Melanoma include:

• Weakened Immune System: Those with conditions that suppress the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS or organ transplants, are more likely to develop melanoma.
• Causes and Risk factors are same for Melanoma