Melanoma
Overview
A type of skin cancer which develops from the cells (melanocytes) that control pigment of the skin.
Symptoms
If you or someone you know is exhibiting symptoms of a Melanoma, seek medical attention immediately
The symptoms include:
- The earliest symptom is typically a change in an existing mole or a new mole arising
- The development of a new pigmented or unusuallooking growth on your skin
The below mentioned strategies helps discriminate the melanoma from other skin cancers. The ABCDE’s of melanoma helps identify the disease condition
- Asymmetry: The mole may not be uniform, one half looks different from the other half
- Border irregularity: The moles may be uneven or notched
- Color: The moles may be of different colors and irregular patterns
- Diameter: The mole may be bigger in size, at least a 6mm size
- Evolving: The mole may be changing colors, size and texture and might also bleed
- Evolving: The mole may be changing colours, size and texture and might also bleed
→ Common treatment options & How is this diagnosed?
Causes
- Melanoma is caused due to problem in the melanocytes, the pigment producing cells. The exact cause is unknown but environmental and genetic factors play a role.
– Risk factors include:
- Exposure to UV (ultraviolet) radiation
- Gene mutation
- Fair skin
- Family history increases the risk
- Weakened immune system
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