Melanoma is a malignant tumor predominantly found in the skin but can
be found elsewhere, especially the eye. The vast majority of melanomas
originate in the skin. Melanomas are the most lethal form of skin
cancer. As with most forms of cancer, earlier detection gives patients
a better chance of survival.
Epidemiologic studies from Australia suggest that exposure to
ultraviolet radiation is one of the major contributors to the
development of melanoma. Occasional extreme sun exposure resulting in a
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 legs in women (areas
of intermittent sun exposure) and is more common in indoor workers than
outdoor workers (in a British study). Other factors are mutations in or
total loss of tumor suppressor genes. Use of sunbeds with deeply
penetrating UVA rays has been linked to the development of skin
cancers, including melanoma.
Possible significant elements in determining risk include the intensity
and duration of sun exposure, the age at which sun exposure occurs, and
the degree of skin pigmentation. Exposure during childhood is a more
important risk factor than exposure in adulthood. This is seen in
migration studies in Australia where people tend to retain the risk
profile of their country of birth if they migrate to Australia as an
adult. Individuals with blistering or peeling sunburns especially in
the first twenty years of life have a significantly greater risk for
melanoma.
Fair and red-headed people are at greater risk for developing melanoma.
A person with multiple atypical nevi or dysplastic nevi are at a
significant risk. Persons born with giant congenital naevi are at
increased risk.
A family history of melanoma greatly increases a person's risk. Certain
'melanoma families' display features of mendelian inheritance of cancer
causing genes. It is critical that individuals with family members who
have been diagnosed with melanoma be checked regularly for skin cancer.
Patients with a history of one melanoma are at increased risk of
developing a second primary tumour.
Do you suspect that you may have Melanoma?
Any mole that is irregular in color or shape should be examined by a
doctor to determine if it is a malignant melanoma, the most serious and
life-threatening form of skin cancer. Following a visual examination
and a dermatoscopic exam (an instrument that illuminates a mole,
revealing its underlying pigment and vascular network structure), the
doctor may biopsy the suspicious mole. If it is malignant, the mole and
an area around it needs excision by a surgeon or dermatologist.
The diagnosis of melanoma requires experience, as early stages may look
identical to harmless moles or not have any color at all. Where any
doubt exists, the patient will be referred to a specialist
dermatologist.
How to Prevent Melanoma
Minimize exposure to sources of ultraviolet radiation (the sun and sunbeds).
Wearing long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, and broad-brimmed hats offers the best protection.
Use a sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30 or better on exposed areas.
Disclaimer - The information presented here should not be interpreted
as medical advice. If you suspect you have Melanoma, please consult
your physician as early as possible for diagnosis and treatment options.
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