Melanoma: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Introduction

Melanoma, often dubbed as the deadliest form of skin cancer, can be a menacing threat when left unchecked. While it’s essential to enjoy the great outdoors and soak up the sun’s warmth, it’s equally crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with prolonged sun exposure.

Causes of Melanoma

UV Radiation: The primary culprit behind melanoma is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. When your skin absorbs excessive UV radiation, it can damage the DNA in your skin cells, increasing the risk of melanoma.
Genetic Factors: Individuals with a family history of melanoma are at a higher risk. Specific gene mutations, such as BRAF and NRAS, have been linked to an increased susceptibility to melanoma. If you have a family history, regular screenings are essential.
Fair Skin: People with fair skin, light hair, and light-coloured eyes are more prone to melanoma. This is because they have less melanin, a pigment that provides some protection against UV radiation.
Moles: Having numerous moles on your body or having large, irregularly shaped moles can elevate your risk. Pay close attention to any changes in the size, shape, or color of moles, and consult a dermatologist if you notice anything unusual.

Symptoms of Melanoma

Changes in Moles: One of the most common signs of melanoma is a change in an existing mole or the appearance of a new, unusual mole. Be vigilant for moles that have irregular borders, uneven coloring, or a diameter larger than a pencil eraser (about 6 mm).
Asymmetry: If you draw an imaginary line through a mole, both halves should be symmetrical. Asymmetrical moles can be a red flag.
Irregular Border: Melanomas often have irregular, notched, or scalloped borders, whereas benign moles tend to have smooth, even borders.
Color Variation: Moles that exhibit a variety of colors, such as shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue, may indicate melanoma.
Evolving Moles: Any mole that changes in size, shape, or color over time should be examined by a dermatologist.
Itching or Bleeding: Melanomas may itch, bleed, or become painful. Any unusual sensations or bleeding from a mole should be promptly evaluated.
Spread Beyond the Skin: In advanced cases, melanoma can spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs, leading to symptoms like swollen lymph nodes, difficulty breathing, or unexplained weight loss.

Understanding the causes and symptoms of melanoma is paramount in early detection and prevention. Protect yourself by wearing sunscreen, avoiding excessive sun exposure, and performing regular self-examinations of your skin.

If you notice any concerning changes in your moles or experience suspicious symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist. Early detection can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment and recovery. Stay sun-safe and skin-aware to reduce your risk of melanoma and enjoy a healthier, happier life.

Diagnosis of Melanoma

Melanoma, a severe form of skin cancer, requires prompt diagnosis and effective treatment for the best possible outcome.

Clinical Examination: The first step in diagnosing melanoma often involves a thorough clinical examination by a dermatologist. They will inspect your skin, including any moles or suspicious lesions, and inquire about your medical history and family history of skin cancer.
Dermoscopy: Dermoscopy is a non-invasive technique that allows dermatologists to examine moles and skin lesions under magnification. It helps them assess the mole’s structure and determine if further evaluation or biopsy is needed.
Biopsy: If a mole or skin lesion appears suspicious during clinical examination or dermoscopy, a biopsy is performed. A small tissue sample is removed and sent to a pathologist for examination under a microscope. This confirms the presence of melanoma and provides information about its type and stage.
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: In cases where melanoma has a higher risk of spreading, a sentinel lymph node biopsy may be recommended. This procedure helps determine if the cancer has reached nearby lymph nodes, aiding in staging and treatment decisions.
Imaging Tests: Advanced melanoma or suspected metastasis may require imaging tests like CT scans, MRI scans, or PET scans to assess the extent of cancer spread within the body.

Treatment of Melanoma

Surgery: Surgery is often the primary treatment for localized melanoma. The extent of surgery depends on the tumor’s size, location, and stage. Options include:

– Excisional Biopsy: Removal of the melanoma and a margin of healthy tissue around it.

– Wide Local Excision: Additional surgery to ensure all cancer cells are removed.

– Lymph Node Dissection: Removal of affected lymph nodes in advanced cases.

Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy drugs, such as checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., pembrolizumab, nivolumab) and interleukin-2, boost the body’s immune system to recognize and attack melanoma cells. These treatments are particularly effective in advanced melanoma cases.
Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy medications (e.g., BRAF and MEK inhibitors) target specific gene mutations commonly found in melanoma cells. They can be effective in cases with these mutations.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy may be used after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells or for palliative care in advanced cases to relieve symptoms.
Chemotherapy: While less common, chemotherapy may be used in advanced melanoma cases that do not respond to other treatments. It is typically reserved for cases where melanoma has spread to distant organs.
Clinical Trials: Participation in clinical trials can provide access to innovative treatments and therapies that are still in the experimental stage.

Early diagnosis and timely treatment are critical in managing melanoma effectively. Regular self-examinations, skin checks with dermatologists, and staying vigilant about changes in moles or skin lesions are essential for early detection.

If diagnosed, know that various treatment options are available, including surgery, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and more, tailored to your specific case. Always consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment plan for you. With advances in medical science, the prognosis for melanoma patients has improved significantly, offering hope for a brighter future.