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Melanoma is a serious and dangerous form of skin cancer that develops due to damaged DNA in melanocytes — pigment-producing cells. It is usually caused by overexposure to UV light.
What is it?
Melanoma is a severe form of skin cancer that originates from the melanocyte cells, which are responsible for skin pigmentation. It is typically caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet light from sources such as the sun, tanning beds, and sun lamps. This exposure can damage the DNA in melanocytes, resulting in mutations that eventually lead to skin cancer. Melanoma can rapidly spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated promptly, hence the essential need for early detection.
Alongside your yearly skin examination with a board-certified dermatologist at our dermatology clinic, we recommend regular self-checks using the ABCDE method. If you notice a mole or spot with the following characteristics, contact a dermatologist immediately:
A - Asymmetry in shape
B - Borders that are uneven
C - Color variation from one area to another
D - Diameter larger than that of a pencil eraser
E - Evolution in size, shape, or color compared to a previous check
By limiting your exposure to the sun and protecting your skin from UV rays, you can reduce your risk of developing melanoma. It's important to remember that although sunbathing can be enjoyable, it can also be detrimental to your skin. Sun damage can accumulate throughout the year, even during the cold months. Ensure you apply SPF 30+ sunscreen and limit your exposure to harmful rays.
How is it treated?
Should you have a suspicious mole or spot, make an appointment today with one of our skin cancer specialists in Avon, Sandusky, Broadview Heights, Medina, Port Clinton, or Strongsville, Ohio. Our board-certified dermatologist will conduct an in-office skin biopsy to examine any suspicious areas. Your tissue sample will be forwarded to a dermapathologist to determine whether it contains cancerous cells. The treatment for melanoma hinges on the kind of melanoma you have and the disease stage - 0, I, II, III, or IV. Regardless of your stage, our team at Dermatology Partners is prepared to deliver expert, compassionate care.
Our dermatologists have specialized training and certification in a variety of melanoma treatments, including surgical excision, Mohs surgery, immunotherapy, targeted drug therapy, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Being part of the DOCS Dermatology Group, our team also has access to the latest clinical trials for cancers that are less responsive to traditional treatment.