Melanoma is a type of cancer derived by skin cells that produce a pigment called melanin. It is less common than other skin cancers (basal and squamous cell carcinoma) but it is the most serious of them all. The possibility for a healthy individual to develop melanoma is around 1%.

Generally, patients diagnosed with melanoma have been previously exposed to sun radiation, carry fair skin and may have suffered from sun burns in the past. Some patients might have a personal or family history of melanoma. Melanoma usually appears as a dark spot on the skin that changes in color or size.

DIAGNOSIS

In most cases a simple physical examination is sufficient for diagnosis. Nevertheless, there are cases where a biopsy might be ordered.

TREATMENT

Melanoma should be operated. If the disease has expanded, additional radiotherapy, chemotherapy or immunotherapy might be needed.

PROGNOSIS

The earlier we discover melanoma, the more possible it is to cure the patient before the disease spreads. Regular skin check, even after melanoma has been diagnosed, helps to identify the illness in time and treat it adequately.