What is Melanoma ?
Melanoma is a skin cancer that starts in melanocytes (cells that make melanin), which give skin its pigment, or color. Sometimes these cells change, often because of damage caused by sun exposure. Over time, this damage may result in cancer.
Facts :
While melanoma accounts for only 3% of all types of the skin cancer, it has the highest death rate of all types and is more likely to spread (metastasize) in the body. It is also one of the most frequently occurring cancers in young adults ages 20 to 30, and is the main cause of cancer death in women 25 to 30 years old.
It appears most commonly on the trunk area in fair-skinned men and on the lower legs in fair-skinned women. In dark-skinned people, It appears most frequently on the palms, the soles of the feet and the skin under nails. If caught early, It is often curable.
Symptoms of Melanoma may include :
Most common sites are head and neck region (including the nasal cavity, mouth and esophagus), rectum, urinary tract and vagina.
Because the eyes contain melanocytes, they can be susceptible to melanoma.
Some cases can be passed down from one generation to the next. Genetic counseling may be right for you.
Some people have an elevated risk of developing melanoma.
Behavioral and lifestyle changes can help being a preventive measure.
Sun damage, especially a history of peeling sunburns, is the main risk factor . Artificial sunlight from tanning beds causes the same risk as natural sunlight.
Fair complexion: People with blond or red hair, light skin, blue eyes and a tendency to sunburn are at increased risk.
Types Include:
Atypical mole and melanoma syndrome (AMS): Previously known as dysplastic nevus syndrome, AMS is characterized by large numbers of atypical moles. If you have AMS, you and your family members should be screened regularly
Not everyone with risk factors gets this cancer . However, if you have risk factors, it’s a good idea to discuss them with your health care provider.
Our team of internationally recognized experts provides customized treatment to ensure you receive the most advanced care with the least impact on your body.
Treatment facility
Ben Love/El Paso Corporation Melanoma and Skin Center, we use our unique multidisciplinary approach to tailor treatment for this skin cancer specifically to your unique situation.
More than 10,000 melanoma patients –– among the most of any program in the world –– are evaluated here each year. Caring for this large and diverse patient population has helped us develop an outstanding team of melanoma specialists with wide-ranging expertise and experience in treating all types of melanoma.
Your personal team of experts in melanoma skin cancer may include melanoma surgical oncologists, melanoma medical oncologists, pathologists, dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons, head and neck surgeons, neurosurgeons, plastic surgeons and other surgeons, radiation oncologists, diagnostic radiologists, and other specialists if needed. They work together closely, collaborating and communicating at every step of your treatment.