Melanoma

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. Often the first sign of melanoma is a change in the size, shape, color or feel of a mole.

Most melanomas have a black or black-blue area. Melanoma may also appear as a new mole. It may be black, abnormal or "ugly looking."

Thinking of "ABCD" can help you remember what to watch for:

  • Asymmetry - the shape of one half does not match the other
  • Border - the edges are ragged, blurred or irregular
  • Color - the color in uneven and may include shades of black, brown and tan
  • Diameter - there is a change in size, usually an increase

Melanoma can be cured if it is diagnosed and treated early. If melanoma is not removed in its early stages, cancer cells may grow downward from the skin surface and invade healthy tissue. If it spreads to other parts of the body it can be difficult to control.

Any mole or skin lesion suspicious for melanoma should be biopsied.  A biopsy is the surgical removal of a portion of the concerning lesion.  This piece is then evaluated by a pathologist to confirm the diagnosis.  If that takes place, then The melanoma and the section of skin around it is removed.  Often lymph nodes are removed at the same time.  This kind of procedure is done by specialized surgeons under general anesthesia.    

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Melanoma