Melanoma is a malignant tumor found mainly in the skin, but it can also be found elsewhere, especially in the eye. The vast majority of melanomas originate in the skin. Melanomas are the deadliest form of skin cancer. As with most forms of cancer, earlier detection gives patients a better chance of survival.
Epidemiological studies from Australia suggest that exposure to ultraviolet radiation is one of the major contributors to the development of melanoma. Occasional extreme sun exposure that results in sunburn is causally related to melanoma. Those with more chronic, long-term exposure (outdoor workers) may develop protective mechanisms. Melanoma is most common on the back in men and on the legs in women (areas of occasional sun exposure) and is more common in indoor workers than in outdoor workers (in a UK study). Other factors are mutations or complete loss of tumor suppressor genes. The use of tanning beds with deeply penetrating UVA rays is associated with the development of skin cancer, including melanoma.
Potentially important elements in determining risk include the intensity and duration of sun exposure, the age at which tanning occurs, and the degree of skin pigmentation. Childhood exposure is a more important risk factor than adult exposure. This is seen in studies of migration in Australia, where people tend to retain the risk profile of their country of birth if they migrate to Australia as adults. Individuals with blistering or peeling burns, especially in the first twenty years of life, have a significantly higher risk of developing melanoma.
Fairer and red-haired people are at greater risk of developing melanoma. A person with multiple atypical nevi or dysplastic nevi is at significant risk. Persons born with giant congenital nevi are at increased risk.
A family history of melanoma significantly increases a person's risk. Some "melanoma families" show signs of Mendelian inheritance of cancer-causing genes. It is important that individuals with family members who have been diagnosed with melanoma are regularly screened for skin cancer. Patients with a history of melanoma have an increased risk of developing a second primary tumor.
Do you suspect you may have melanoma?
Any mole that is irregular in color or shape should be examined by a doctor to determine if it is malignant melanoma, the most serious and life-threatening form of skin cancer. After a visual inspection and dermatoscopic examination (an instrument that illuminates the mole and reveals its underlying pigment and vascular network structure), the doctor may perform a biopsy of the suspected mole. If malignant, the mole and the area around it need excision by a surgeon or dermatologist.
Diagnosing melanoma requires experience, as the early stages may look identical to harmless moles or may have no color at all. In case of any doubts, the patient will be referred to a specialist dermatologist.
How to prevent melanoma
Minimize exposure to sources of ultraviolet radiation (sun and tanning beds).
Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and wide-brimmed hats offer the best protection.
Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or better on exposed areas.
Disclaimer - The information contained herein should not be construed as medical advice. If you suspect you have melanoma, please consult your doctor as soon as possible about the diagnosis and treatment options.
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