Skin Cancer Diagnosis & Treatments

Malignant Melanoma

Diagnosis
Malignant melanoma is the most deadly of all skin cancers.  Every year, an estimated 7,700 Americans will die from melanoma.  It is projected that more than 46,000 Americans will develop melanoma annually.  However, the death rate is declining because melanoma is usually curable when detected in its early stages and patients are seeking medical help sooner.  Early melanoma can be removed while still in the curable stage.

Melanoma may appear suddenly or begin in or near a mole, or another dark spot in the skin.  It is important to know the location and appearance of the moles on the body to detect changes early.  Any changing mole must be examined promptly by a dermatologist.  Excessive sun exposure, especially sunburn, is the most important preventable cause of melanoma.  Although light-skinned individuals are at greater risk, heredity also plays a role.  Atypical moles (dysplastic nevi), which may run in families, and a large number of moles, can serve as markers for people at increased risk for developing melanoma.  Dark skin is not a guarantee against melanoma.  People with skin color can also develop melanoma, especially on the palms, soles, under the nails, in the mouth, or on the genitalia.

Warning signs of melanoma include:

• Changes in the surface of a mole.
• Scaliness, oozing, bleeding or the appearance of a new bump.
• Change in sensation including itchiness, tenderness, or pain.