Most people love to spend some time having fun in the sun, but unfortunately, if you don't wear sunscreen and limit your exposure, you might end up with skin cancer called Melanoma. Dr. Richard Cirelli at Sunwest Dermatology and Skin Cancer Treatment Center in Prescott, AZ wants to share some important information about melanoma.
What Is Melanoma?
Melanoma is a serious type of skin cancer that occurs when cells called melanocytes begin to grow out of control. Melanoma is far less common than other types of skin cancer, but it is far more dangerous because it is more likely to spread to other areas of the body if it is not detected and treated early.
FAQs About Melanoma
What Causes Melanoma? Ultraviolet rays from the sun or sunless tanning beds can cause Melanoma. Repeated, intense, intermittent sun exposure that causes sunburns is often the trigger for Melanoma cancer as well as the use and overuse of tanning beds.
Where is Melanoma Found? Melanomas usually look like moles and can sometimes even develop from an existing mole. Melanomas might show up on any area of the body, even areas that aren't normally routinely exposed to the sun.
Are There Risk Factors for Melanoma? There are several factors that might make someone more susceptible to developing Melanoma, including:
- Unprotected or excessive exposure to UV rays from either tanning beds and/or the sun
- Having a weaker immune system because of existing or underlying medical conditions or medications
- Melanoma happens more frequently in people with light skin, light eyes and red or lighter hair colors
- Personal history of skin cancer also leads to a higher risk of Melanoma
- Family history of relatives having melanoma
- Having a lot of moles, large moles, or atypical moles also elevates the risk for developing Melanoma
How is Melanoma treated?
Luckily, there are several treatment options available for people who develop melanoma which improve their survival rates and quality of life. Treatment options will always depend on the location of the Melanoma and how early or late it is detected. Some treatment options that physicians utilize are:
- Surgery to remove the tumor
- Immunotherapy
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation treatments
- Targeted treatments/therapies
Detecting and treating Melanoma early is vital for treatment and survival. Be aware of changes to your skin and get annual skin checks from your dermatologist!
If you are concerned that you might have Melanoma or need an annual skin check, please call (928) 445-7546 and let Dr. Richard Cirelli's team at Sunwest Dermatology and Skin Cancer Treatment Center in Prescott, AZ schedule you for a consultation and evaluation today. Call (928) 445-7546 today.