Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can originate in the cells that produce melanin. It can spread to other parts of the body if it’s not discovered and treated, making it one of the most dangerous types of cancer. It often appears as a strange-looking mole – early detection is the key to treatment and curing the patient. If not addressed early, it becomes a challenge to treat in advanced stages.
Symptoms of Melanoma
Look for any changes in the size, shape, or color of a mole. Melanoma can cause moles to feel itchy, and even painful. It can also cause moles to bleed or ooze. Additional signs can include color changes in shades of white, red, brown, or black. Individuals should examine the skin around a mole too since swelling and redness can be red flags. People should notify their doctor immediately of any skin signs that appear odd.
Where Is Melanoma Found?
Along with occurring around moles, melanoma could start in unusual places like under toenails and fingernails. Melanomas may even start inside the mouth or in the colored part of a person’s eye, or occur on a person’s neck, arms, and legs.
Most commonly, melanoma appears in areas that receive a lot of sun exposure. Regular doctor visits and self-examinations can help detect unusual skin changes before they lead to issues.
Who’s at Risk for Melanoma?
According to the American Cancer Society, the risk of melanoma increases as a person ages. The average age of diagnosis is 65 years old, however, melanoma can affect people younger than the age of 30. In fact, melanoma is the most common cancer found in young adults. Within the young adult population, melanoma poses the greatest risk to young women.
How Is Melanoma Treated?
Depending on the stage of melanoma, there are a number of treatments available. At the early stage, surgical methods can remove the cancerous tissue. Medical professionals can remove cancerous growth through radiation, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. The patient may also receive treatment to boost the immune system. At Biltmore Dermatology, patients receive personalized treatment plans.
Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that can threaten a person’s life. Always monitor your own skin for any changes that do not seem normal. Seek medical advice right away. The experienced dermatologists of Biltmore have the medical training and expertise to diagnose and treat conditions of the skin. You can expect a thorough examination, and they can determine if a mole is cancerous.
Why Seeking Treatment is Vital
If a person ignores the signs of melanoma, the condition can spread and become more difficult to treat. Seek professional help today at Biltmore Dermatology. Ryan Patterson, practice owner, is a dermatology-certified nurse practitioner. He and his team of professionals can offer genuine care with current medical treatments. If you are concerned about skin cancer or melanoma, schedule a consultation with Biltmore for comprehensive care.
WALK-IN APPOINTMENTS
If you have an immediate concern, you want to find quality care as soon as possible. Our office takes walk-in appointments and will be happy to address your concerns and offer you immediate treatment suggestions and medical care.
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