Skin Cancer - Melanoma - 3

Melanoma Diagnosis

Biopsy of the suspected tissue confirms the presence of Melanoma. If the tumor is bigger than 1 mm in thickness, lymph nodes may be examined for possible presence of melanoma cells in the nodes. A whole body scan also helps in finding out if the cancer has spread.

Treatment of Melanoma-

The choice of treatment depends upon the stage of melanoma. Melanoma progresses from the primary stage to fourth stage. In the fourth stage, the cancer has spread to different body parts. During the initial stages, surgery to remove the cancerous growth is the first choice. Treatment with Interferon is also used for melanoma that has spread to lymph nodes. For the fourth stage, you may have to discuss the treatment options with your oncologist. It is mostly incurable at this stage.

High Risk Groups-

* Exposure to UV radiation is the biggest risk factor. Most of this exposure takes place during the childhood. Those who are involved with jobs that keep them outdoor for a long time are also at risk.

* Presence of atypical moles (dysplastic nevi).

* White race. People who have fair skin that burns rather than tans, red hair, or blue eyes are at a higher risk.

* Previous melanoma or other skin cancer. Family history of melanoma.

* Other cancers such as leukemia or lymphoma.

* Impaired immune system.

* PUVA treatment, which is used to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis.



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