Understanding Melanoma Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

As people like to take a sunbath, many find joy in the radiant glow of summer tan. Under that tan, there is a hidden, deadly threat called melanoma.  However, beneath the surface lies a potentially deadly threat: melanoma. This form of skin cancer has several underestimations and a lack of clarity when compared to other types of cancer. So in this blog, we are going deeper to learn more about this hidden danger. 

Melanoma – All about skin cancer

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, which gives skin its color. It can affect any part of the body, even the eyes and mucous membranes. Melanoma is one of the most serious skin cancers because of its fast-spreading nature. At first, it can be seen by changes in the moles of the skin. If it is not cured, it will spread quickly and cause itching and bleeding. Additionally, if melanoma spreads to other parts of the body, the pain and severity depend on the extent and depth of the penetration. 

Unmasking the symptoms

Melanoma does not always appear with symptoms or warning signs. It is not a noticeable change in the skin. However, there are certain symptoms that raise red flags. 

• The changes in the moles: Always observe the moles for any changes in their shapes, size, and color. Even the texture of the mole can change.
• Appearing new moles: Keep an eye on your skin every time. There is a chance that new moles will appear on your ski, particularly when they are dark and shapeless.
• Bleeding or Itching: The moles or irregularities on the skin that itch or bleed may be the symptom of the disease. Sometimes the skin lesions may be painful and should be examined by a medical professional.
• Notched Border: The normal moles are usually in a round shape. If the border of the moles is not regular or feels rough or uneven, it can be a sign of cancer.
• Changes in color and shape: If the moles on the skin have partially or fully changed in color or skin, this can be a red flag.

 Peering into the Causes

Understanding the exact reason for the melanoma can help with effective prevention strategies. Everything has its benefits if it is taken within limits. In the case of excessive sun exposure and UV radiation, they play an important role in skin cancer. Especially individuals with a family history of melanoma are at higher risk. Also, individuals with fair skin, light-colored eyes, and a history of sunburns should consult the doctor.

Shedding Light on Diagnosis

Early detection in the case of the disease is difficult. Dermatologists have a range of techniques to diagnose this type of skin cancer for timely interventions. Following are the significant diagnosis methods:

Visual Examination

This can be considered the first stage of diagnosis. Here, the doctor inspects each and every mole and all the spots. If they find anything suspicious in the color, size, or shape of the moles, it can be cured in the very first stage. 

Dermoscopy

It has an important role in diagnostic accuracy and helps to avoid other unnecessary biopsies. In this technique, the dermatologists use a handheld device called a dermatoscope. The polarized light from the device helps to scrutinize the irregularities on the skin. It reveals the hidden details and clarity of the diagnosis. Therefore, this method is invaluable for dermatologists. 

Skin Biopsy

By doing all the above diagnostic methods, any irregularities or suspicious things identified should go for a skin biopsy. In this method, a small sample of tissue from the lesion is removed and examined under the microscope by a pathologist. This results in detailed information about the stages of melanoma, its presence, and its type. 

Advances in Technology

The invention and development of technology also changed diagnostic methods. By such techniques, cancer can be detected at the primary stages with precise efficiency. The AI algorithms can be coupled with sophisticated image techniques. 

Is melanoma curable?

Melanoma is considered curable if detected and handled early. But the diagnosis and curability of melanoma depend on the stage and the penetration of the cancer into the skin. When cancer is detected early, before it has unfolded past the skin, the tumor is commonly removed via surgery. In some cases, opportunity treatment plans such as chemotherapy, targeted remedies, or radiation therapy can be used to cure.

The preventive measures

Prevention is the most preferable and effective way compared to all other cancers. By following sun-safe practices, we can play an important role in controlling deadly cancer. 

• Sunscreen: High SPF can protect your skin. For that, use a broad spectrum of sunscreen regularly. Make sure that the sunscreen protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays. Even if the skin is not exposed to outdoor sunlight, apply sunscreen all day. Selecting a sunscreen that covers all the above factors is important. It is always better to consult a dermatologist before buying the perfect sunscreen. 
• Protective Clothing: Wear clothes and other accessories that protect the whole body’s skin from the sun. For that, use a full-sleeve dress and wear UV protective sunglasses. Can also use hats and umbrellas for protection from the sun.
• Seeking shade: Try to avoid the sun’s exposure during peak hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. It can reduce the risk of cancer.
• Routine Skin Exams: As with other body parts, skin also should undergo routine checkups. Professional skin exams by a dermatologist will be accurate, and you will learn more about skin care and all other preventive measures.

Health Sources:

https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin/patient/melanoma-treatment-pdq#:~:text=Melanoma%20is%20a%20disease%20in,affect%20the%20risk%20of%20melanoma.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/154322

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/melanoma-skin-cancer/about/what-is-melanoma.html

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/melanoma-skin-cancer.html