Melanoma is a type of cancer that begins in the skin. It occurs in cells called melanocytes that produce melanin, the brown pigment that is responsible for the color of our skin. Melanoma occurs when melanocytes become grow uncontrollably and invade other tissues.

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. While it accounts for only about four percent of skin cancers, it causes about three-quarters of all skin cancer deaths. Melanoma can be completely treated when detected early, but fatal if allowed to grow and spread.

Signs and Symptoms

Changes in the skin are the most common sign of early melanoma. A mole or skin lesion that grows or changes shape or color, a new spot or growth, any pigmented (more darkly colored) areas that look different from other moles, or a sore that does not heal – all require prompt medical attention. Use this simple “ABCDE” rule to recognize the warning signs of melanoma:

• Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half
• Border irregularity: The edges of the mole are ragged, notched or blurred Color: The pigmentation of the mole is not consistent. There are different shades of tan, brown or black, and sometimes patches of red, blue or white, giving it a mottled appearance.
• Diameter: Melanomas are usually at least 6mm in diameter when diagnosed (about the size of a pencil eraser), but they can be smaller.
• Elevation: A mole becomes elevated or raised above the surface of the surrounding skin.

Other Types of Skin Cancer

Skin cancers are divided into two major types: non-melanoma and melanoma.

Non-melanomas

Nonmelanoma skin cancers are the most common cancers of the skin; in fact, they are more common than any other type of cancer. They are referred to as nonmelanomas because they develop from skin cells other than melanocytes. And because they seldom metastasize (spread), they are treated differently than melanoma.

Hidden Melanomas

Melanomas usually develop on the skin, but they sometimes occur on other parts of the body that are not easily or regularly examined for skin cancer, such as the mouth, eye, inside the nose or under the fingernail. While these “hidden” melanomas are relatively uncommon, they are important to know about because treatment is most effective when they are detected early.

Causes of Melanoma

Too much unprotected exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the main cause of melanoma. UV radiation is found in natural sunlight as well as tanning booths and lamps.

UV rays damage DNA, the material that makes up our genes. Genes control the growth and overall health of all our cells, including skin cells. If genetic damage is severe, a normal skin cell may begin to grow abnormally, in the out-of-control way of cancer cells.

Not all melanomas are related to UV radiation, however. Other possible causes include gene mutation, heredity and immune system deficiencies.

Risk Factors for Melanoma

• Fair Skin, Freckles and Light Hair
• History of Sunburn
• Excessive Sun Exposure
• Sunny or High-Altitude Climates
• Moles
• Family History
• Weakened Immune System
• Environmental/Occupational Hazards
• Genetic Disorder
• Past History of Melanoma

Screening and Diagnosis

Regular examination of your skin by both you and your doctor increases the chance of finding melanoma early, in its most treatable stages. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends an annual screening by your physician. Regular skin checks by a doctor also are especially important for people who have already had skin cancer. In addition, everyone should be familiar with their own pattern of moles, blemishes, freckles and other marks on the skin so they can be aware of changes during monthly self-examinations.

Prevention

Protecting yourself from the sun’s damaging rays can prevent most skin cancers. Research also shows that sun protection may also decrease the chances of a skin cancer coming back (recurring) if you have had skin cancer before. The most effective strategy is to limit unprotected exposure to the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s UV rays are the strongest. Some other tips:

• Avoid deliberate tanning. Lying in the sun results in a 1 in 5 chance of developing skin cancer. Tanning booths and sunlamps should also be avoided since they produce UV radiation, too.
• Generously apply sunscreen with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 15 to all exposed skin every day, even when it is cloudy. The sunscreen also should be what is called “broad spectrum” (it provides protection from ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays). The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using one ounce – enough to fill a shot glass – to cover the exposed areas of the body properly. Remember ears, nose, neck, hands and toes. Reapply after being in water or sweating.
• Wear protective clothing. This includes long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hat and wrap-around sunglasses.
• Use extra caution when you are near water, snow and sand. They reflect the sun’s damaging rays and increase the risk of sunburn.
• Protect children from the sun. Use the measures listed above to protect children from sun exposure, especially since they tend to spend more time outdoors and can burn more easily.
• Recognize abnormal moles and have them removed. Perform regular self-examinations and, if you find an unusual or changing mole, see your doctor right away.