Melanoma is a type of cancer that arises from melanocytes, cells responsible for manufacturing melanin, the substance that gives color to the skin.
It can originate on healthy skin or from pre-existing pigmented lesions, causing changes in their size, color or texture.
This type of cancer has great potential to produce metastases, sending tumor cells to other organs, where they will develop.
It is more common in people with fair skin. They appear more frequently in areas of the body that are exposed to solar radiation, but they can appear in areas of the body that are protected from the sun.
In the initial phase, it is restricted to the most superficial layer of the skin, making diagnosis and treatment easier.
As it progresses, it increases in size, changing its original colors, forming wounds, small crusts, bleeding and itching. When a raised lesion forms on the skin, it is a sign that it is increasing in depth. The deeper it is, the more serious the injury, as the risk of metastasis to other regions of the body increases.
Lesions caused by melanomas have some characteristics that make them easier to recognize: the lesion is usually asymmetrical, that is, it has an irregular shape; Edges of the lesion are usually irregular, as if the spot was blurred; Varied color: the spots can be shades of black, brown, pink, gray, blue, white or red; They usually start with small spots that gradually get bigger.
People who are exposed to the sun a lot should be alert to the appearance of new signs on the skin and also old signs that are undergoing any type of change, such as changing color to lighter or darker, increasing size, bleeding, itching and inflammation. . These signs should lead to a consultation with a dermatologist.
Diagnosis
When diagnosed early, while still on the surface of the skin, melanoma can be cured. However, if it is discovered when it is thick and deep, it means that the disease has already spread and reached other parts of the body, making it difficult to control. People who have had melanoma once are at greater risk of having melanoma again.
Treatment
Treatment can be carried out through surgery, chemotherapy, biological therapy or radiotherapy and will depend on some factors, such as: the patient's age, the person's general health, the stage of the disease, among others.
When not treated initially, melanoma can progress, leading to death.
To prevent this, you need to take some precautions, such as: Avoid exposure to the sun between 10am and 4pm; Always use sunscreen; Wear long-sleeved blouses and a hat to protect yourself from the sun; Always do a skin self-examination.
If you find any changes, see a specialist for detailed examinations.
