DERMATOLOGY > SKIN CANCER
BASAL CELL | CARCINOMAS | MELANOMAS
MELANOMA
What is melanoma?
Healthy skin
The amount of death-causing melanomas is currently decreasing thanks to public awareness; that is, people who detect any abnormality in their skin quickly see a dermatologist, enabling a fast detection of melanoma to begin treatment when it is still in its early stages.
This type of skin cancer begins in the cells responsible for producing melanin, melanocytes, which is why it occurs more often in inside or surrounding a mole or any other dark spot on the body. If you notice a mole, freckle, or any other dark spot begins to change colour or even to combine several colours -brown, cinnamon, black, red or white- , if it starts to change size or shows uneven edges or suddenly hurts, itches or produces any type of secretion, you should see a dermatologist as soon as possible.
Periodic examination of these dark spots, especially moles, is fundamental. In fact, it must be carried out at least once a year by a dermatologist.
Treatments for melanoma
Stages of malignant melanoma
The incredible evolution undergone by modern medicine in recent years has made it possible for a great number of cancer treatments to exist today.
The only effective treatment for melanoma is surgery. Radiotherapy may be considered in very special cases of malignant lentigo melanoma.
Regardless, the best treatment for any cancer is prevention and early detection. Do not spend many hours under the sun, use sunscreen, wear sunglasses, and inspect your body periodically for any change or abnormality. This can make a significant difference in the development of skin cancer.
Diagnosis and treatment of squamous cell carcinoma in Valencia
• Dr. Gabriel Serrano Sanmiguel
