Let's talk about melanoma
Welcome to White Pebble Dermatology, located in Columbia, Maryland, and Highland, Maryland!
Melanoma, a form of skin cancer that originates in pigment-producing cells, is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. However, early detection and treatment often yield positive outcomes. In this segment, we delve deeper into melanoma, offering insights into its intricacies and elucidating how our adept team can assist in its early detection and management.
Understanding Melanoma symptoms
Melanoma, a type of skin cancer, emerges from cells responsible for pigment production. It is frequently attributed to exposure to UV radiation from sunlight or tanning beds. Melanoma is capable of manifesting anywhere on the body, presenting in various forms. Notable symptoms encompass alterations in mole color, size, or shape, as well as the appearance of new moles.
Diagnosing Melanoma
Melanoma is primarily diagnosed through clinical assessment aided by dermoscopy, followed by confirmation via biopsy.
Available Treatment Options
A spectrum of effective treatment choices exists for melanoma, including:
- Surgical removal: In cases where the melanoma is small and localized, surgical excision may suffice.
- Radiation therapy: For scenarios involving spread or inoperability, radiation therapy may be administered to eliminate cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: When melanoma extends to distant areas, chemotherapy is employed to target and eliminate cancerous cells.
Preventive Measures for Melanoma
While preventing melanoma can be challenging, adopting preventive measures can mitigate the risk, such as:
- Sun protection: Shielding your skin through the use of protective attire, sunscreen application, and sun avoidance during peak hours can reduce susceptibility.
- Avoiding tanning beds: Steering clear of tanning beds diminishes exposure to UV radiation, lowering the risk of melanoma development.
- Regular skin checks: Routinely examining your skin for mole alterations or new mole appearances, either personally or with a dermatology specialist, facilitates early melanoma detection.
Seek Melanoma Early Detection and/or Treatment Near You in Columbia, MD, and Highland, MD
Ready to Initiate the Journey?
If you're in need of a skin cancer screening to monitor your skin for melanoma, we cordially invite you to call or text for a consultation with one of our dermatology specialists. At White Pebble dermatology practice, we comprehend the profound impact of melanoma on the skin and overall well-being. Hence, our commitment to delivering compassionate, tailored care to each patient is unwavering.
