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Melanoma
Radiate Resilience: Melanoma, Where Hope Takes Root
At Universal Hospital, we are committed to your skin health. By understanding melanoma, adopting preventive measures, and seeking prompt medical attention, you can significantly reduce your risk and enhance your chances of successful treatment. If you have concerns or questions about melanoma, don’t hesitate to contact our dermatology department for expert care and guidance. Your well-being is our top priority.
What is Melanoma?
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that originates in the pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. Melanocytes are responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes. Melanoma is known for its potential to spread rapidly to other parts of the body. While it is less common than other types of skin cancer, it is more likely to invade nearby tissues and spread to other organs.
Risk Factors:
- Excessive Sun Exposure: Intense or prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds.
- Fair Skin: People with fair skin, light hair, and light eyes are at a higher risk.
- Family History: A family history of melanoma can increase the risk.
- Weakened Immune System: Individuals with compromised immune systems are more susceptible.
- Previous Melanoma: Having had melanoma before increases the risk of a recurrence.
Symptoms:
- Changes in Moles: Irregular borders, color variations, or a change in size.
- New Pigmented Growth: A new spot or growth on the skin that is pigmented.
Staging:
Melanoma is staged to determine the extent of its spread. Stages range from 0 (in situ) to IV (advanced and metastatic).
- Stage 0 (In Situ): Cancer is limited to the outermost skin layer (epidermis), without invasion.
- Stage I:
- T1: Tumor thickness is 1.0 mm or less, without ulceration.
- T2: Tumor thickness is 1.01–2.0 mm, without ulceration.
- Stage II:
- T3: Tumor thickness is 2.01–4.0 mm or thicker than 4.0 mm without ulceration.
- T4: Tumor is thicker than 4.0 mm and may have ulceration.
- Stage III: Cancer has spread to regional lymph nodes.
- N1: Cancer cells in one nearby lymph node.
- N2: Cancer cells in two or three nearby lymph nodes or microscopic tumor in nearby skin.
- N3: Cancer cells in four or more nearby lymph nodes or satellite tumors on or under the skin.
- Stage IV: Cancer has spread beyond the original site.
- M1a: Spread to distant skin, subcutaneous tissue, or distant lymph nodes.
- M1b: Spread to the lungs.
- M1c: Spread to other organs or distant lymph nodes.
Diagnosis:
- Skin Examination: A visual inspection of the skin to identify suspicious lesions.
- Biopsy: Removal of a sample of tissue for laboratory examination to confirm melanoma.
Treatment:
- Surgery: Excision of the melanoma and a margin of healthy tissue.
- Immunotherapy: Boosting the body’s immune response to target and eliminate cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific genetic mutations or pathways involved in cancer growth.
- Chemotherapy: Systemic drugs to kill or inhibit cancer cells.
- Radiation Therapy: High-dose X-rays or other forms of radiation to destroy cancer cells.
Prevention:
- Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade.
- Regular Skin Checks: Perform self-exams and have regular skin checks by a dermatologist.
- Avoid Tanning Beds: Tanning beds increase the risk of melanoma.
Prognosis:
Prognosis depends on the stage at diagnosis, thickness of the tumor, and response to treatment. Early detection and treatment significantly improve outcomes.
Screening:
Routine skin checks by a dermatologist are essential, especially for individuals with risk factors.
Melanoma Care at Universal Hospital:
- Expertise: Our Melanoma Care Center boasts a team of renowned dermatologists, oncologists, surgeons, and support staff with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating melanoma.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Universal Hospital is equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic tools and treatment technologies, ensuring the most accurate assessments and effective interventions.
- Patient-Centered Approach: We prioritize personalized care, tailoring treatment plans to individual needs and fostering an environment where patients feel supported, informed, and empowered throughout their journey.
