DEFINITION

Melanoma is the most hazardous type of skin cancer. It occupy the cells that produce pigment (melanin), which is liable for skin and hair color. Melanoma may also occupy the pigmented portion of the eye.

SYMPTOMS

The initial symptoms of any skin cancer is usually a mole, sore, lump, or unusual growth on the skin.The warning signal is any change in appearance of a pigmented skin injury Also, watch for blood coming out from a skin growth.
The solution to treating melanoma is to recognize symptoms early. You should be carefully notice any unusual growth, so perform careful self-examinations on a regular basis.

CAUSES & TYPES

There are 4 main types of melanoma:

• Superficial spreading melanoma: It is the most general type of melanoma. It is usually flat and uneven in shape and color, with different shades of black and brown. It can happen at any age or site and It is most common in Caucasians.
• Nodular melanoma: can start as a raised area which is dark blackish-blue or bluish-red, even though some lack color.
• Lentigo maligna melanoma: usually happens in the elder person. It is most common in sun exposed areas of the skin like face, neck, and arms. The abnormal skin region are usually big in size, flat, and tan with intermixed areas of brown.
• Acral lentiginous melanoma : is not very common form of melanoma. It generally occurs on the palms, soles, or under the nails and is mostly common in African Americans.
Melanoma can spread very speedily and is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. Although it is less common than other kinds of skin cancer.
Melanoma can appear on normal skin, or it may begin at a mole or other area that has changed in appearance.


TREATMENT

The skin with cancerous cells and a portion of the normal surrounding skin need to be surgically removal. It is necessary to see by surgical lymph node biopsy that the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, that should also be removed and if a large area of skin is affected than a skin graft will be needed.
Radiation therapy, Immunotherapy or Chemotherapy can be recommended in addition to surgery.