It is a skin cancer consisting of cells called melanocytes that produce the pigment called melanin, which gives the skin its color. Although melanoma is not common when compared to other skin cancers, it is the most deadly because it can spread to the body through blood or lymph circulation. Therefore, early diagnosis is very important. It can develop on moles or appear on normal skin as a mole mimicking me. It may begin as an irregular dark spot or blister. Asymmetry, edge and color irregularity, rapid growth or change in moles may be a sign of melanoma. The incidence of melanoma is increasing day by day.
Who is at risk for melanoma?
People with fair skin, freckles, who blush easily but cannot tan, have blond or red hair, and colored eyes
Having a family member with melanoma
have many moles
Having atypical (irregular) moles
Frequent sunburn (especially in childhood)
How is melanoma diagnosed?
It is important that people with the above-mentioned risk factors are under the control of a doctor. In addition, these people can self-examine the whole body skin with the help of a small mirror in front of a large mirror. During the examination, the scalp, behind the ears, genital area, palms, soles, between the fingers and nails should not be forgotten. This inspection can be done 2-3 times a year.
It is important that people with atypical moles are under the control of a dermatologist. Suspicious moles are examined with a dermatoscope (skin microscope), and moles that seem necessary are recorded for monitoring and control. When a change is noticed in me, it should be surgically removed and examined pathologically. The diagnosis of melanoma is made by the complete removal of the suspicious stain or, if it is a large stain, by taking a biopsy and examining it pathologically.
How is melanoma treated?
Treatment of melanoma depends on the stage of the disease. Treatment of early-stage melanoma that is only in the skin is extensive removal. How wide the cancer will be removed is decided according to the thickness of the cancer in the skin. The cure rate is very high (98%) in patients with early diagnosed melanoma thinner than 1 mm. In advanced melanoma, lymph node involvement may occur and biopsy may be required from the lymph nodes. It may be necessary to screen the patient with radiological imaging methods to understand whether the cancer has spread throughout the body. In addition, biological agents such as chemotherapy and interferon can be used in advanced melanoma.
How can we prevent melanoma?
Sun protection, especially starting from childhood, is very important to prevent sunburns. In addition, it is very important for people with a family history of melanoma, multiple moles or irregular moles to self-examine and be followed up by a dermatologist for early diagnosis.
