Melanoma – 5% of all skin cancers. Melanoma is a rare but very dangerous type of skin cancer. It is the leading cause of death from skin disease.Skin cancers vary in shape, color, size and texture, so any new, changed or otherwise suspicious growths or rashes should be examined immediately by a physician. Early intervention is essential to preventing the cancer from spreading. Melanoma is a potentially life-threatening skin cancer of the melanocytes, the cells that make melanin (brown pigment). Most cases of melanoma occur in new or existing moles on the surface of the skin. Melanoma has a fatality rate higher than those for basal cell and squamous cell cancers, and accounts for more than 80 percent of all deaths from skin cancer.
Ultraviolet (UV) light is the most common cause of melanoma. It comes from the sun and is used in sunbeds.
Melanoma is more common in older people, but younger people can also get it.
You’re also more likely to get melanoma if you have:
If you have black or brown skin, you have a lower chance of getting melanoma, but you can still get it.
People with black or brown skin most often get melanoma on the soles of the feet, palms of the hands, or under a nail.
Melanoma skin cancer can often be treated. The treatment you have will depend on:
Surgery is the main treatment for melanoma. Radiotherapy, medicines and chemotherapy are also sometimes used.
The specialist care team looking after you will:
You’ll have regular check-ups during and after any treatments. Depending on the stage of your melanoma, you may have tests and scans.
If you have any symptoms or side effects you’re worried about, talk to your specialists. You do not need to wait for your next check-up. Consult The Skin and ask Dr. Salman Mansoor
