Melanoma

What is melanoma?

Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. It is the most serious form of skin cancer, as it can spread to other parts of the body (metastasis) if not diagnosed and treated early.

1. Causes and Risk Factors:

– Exposure to UV radiation: Prolonged and intense exposure to the sun or tanning beds increases the risk of melanoma.

– Fair skin: People with fair skin, blue or green eyes, and blond or red hair are at increased risk.

– Family history: People with a family history of melanoma are at greater risk.

– Personal history: People who have already been diagnosed with melanoma or who have multiple moles are at higher risk.

– Weakened immune system: People with a weakened immune system are at increased risk of developing melanoma.

2. Symptoms:

Melanoma most often appears as a change in the size, shape, or color of an existing mole, or as a new, unusual spot on the skin.

3. Diagnosis:

– Dermatological examination: The dermatologist examines suspicious spots on the skin using a dermatoscope.

– Biopsy: If melanoma is suspected, the suspicious mole or spot is removed and sent for biopsy.

– Tests for metastases: In advanced stages, additional tests (imaging and blood tests) may be necessary.

4. Treatment:

– Surgical removal: The melanoma is removed along with a portion of the healthy skin surrounding it.

– Immunotherapy: Medications that help the immune system fight cancer cells.

– Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific genetic mutations in cancer cells.

– Radiation therapy: It is used in advanced stages or following surgery.

– Chemotherapy: In advanced stages, although it is used less frequently.

5. Prevention:

– Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and use sunscreen with a high SPF.

– Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.

– Regular inspection for new or changing olive trees.

– Avoid tanning beds (solariums).

If detected at an early stage, melanoma can be successfully treated. However, if it progresses, it becomes more dangerous, as it can spread to other organs.