One of the most common types of cancer is melanoma. This disease is often fatal. Therefore, it is important for every person to know his symptoms and how to prevent him. So what is melanoma? Most often, it develops on the skin of a person, degenerates from moles, rarely affects the retina, intestines and vagina. The main danger is metastases, which, through the circulatory and lymphatic systems, quickly spread to all internal organs. This greatly complicates the treatment.
Before we look at the main signs of melanoma, it’s useful to find out the main causes of its occurrence. The first risk factor is dysplastic nevus or, more simply, moles. The greater their number, the higher the risk of developing melanoma. They can be hereditary. If one of the relatives had cancer, then the whole family is at risk. Most often, signs of melanoma appear in adolescence or senility. It is during these periods that the body is sensitive to hormonal changes. How many moles can be considered critical? Doctors believe that more than 50.
Often, signs of melanoma appear in a certain type of appearance. So, if a person has white skin, blond or red hair and blue eyes, then he has a high risk of developing skin cancer. The thing is that such an appearance is most exposed to ultraviolet radiation. The skin burns and freckles form. This type of cancer most often gives a relapse. It can also appear as a result of a weakening of immunity as a result of taking medication for AIDS or after organ transplantation.
So, it’s clear what melanoma is. Signs of it may be different. Most often, it appears on the lower extremities, face, neck, back. It all starts with the appearance of nevus. But not every mole leads to melanoma. That is why you should not neglect the advice of an oncologist. When should you be anxious? If the nevus has changed color or shape, increased in size, began to bleed, age spots appeared next to it - these may be signs of melanoma. In this case, it is important to consult a doctor as soon as possible and pass all the tests. Even if it really is skin cancer, the sooner treatment begins, the better.
There are several treatments for melanoma. It all depends on the stage of the disease. The most commonly used surgical method. The doctor cuts out the tumor and a small area of skin near it. Its size depends on many factors. If the lymph nodes are affected, then they are also removed. If you plan to remove a large amount of skin, then use the donor.
Chemotherapy for melanoma is rarely used. Taking drugs is carried out in courses. It is important to alternate periods of treatment and recovery. In the fourth stage, it is more efficient to use radiation therapy. It is it that allows you to kill part of the cancer cells and facilitate treatment.
The best therapy is prevention. Therefore, try not to be in the sun for a long time, avoid burns, monitor the condition of the skin and the appearance of new moles. If you experience anxiety symptoms, contact your oncologist as soon as possible. This is the only way to maintain your health!