Melanoma
Department of Melanoma
Melanoma is a kind of skin cancer that starts in the melanocytes. Melanocytes are cells that make the pigment that gives skin its color. The pigment is called melanin.
Melanoma typically starts on skin that’s often exposed to the sun. This includes the skin on the arms, back, face and legs. Melanoma also can form in the eyes. Rarely, it can happen inside the body, such as in the nose or throat.
The exact cause of all melanomas isn’t clear. Most melanomas are caused by exposure to ultraviolet light. Ultraviolet light, also called UV light, comes from sunlight or tanning lamps and beds. Limiting exposure to UV light can help reduce the risk of melanoma.
The risk of melanoma seems to be increasing in people under 40, especially women. Knowing the symptoms of skin cancer can help ensure that cancerous changes are detected and treated before the cancer has spread. Melanoma can be treated successfully if it is found early.
Types
1.Superficial Spreading Melanoma: Most common type, spreads along the skin surface.
2.Nodular Melanoma: Rapidly growing, often appears as a raised bump.
3.Lentigo Maligna Melanoma: Develops from pre-existing pigmented lesions on sun-exposed areas.
4.Acral Lentiginous Melanoma: Occurs on palms, soles, or under nails.
Diagnosis
1.Skin Biopsy: Removal and examination of suspicious skin lesion.
2.Dermoscopy: Microscopic examination of skin features.
3.Imaging Tests: CT, MRI, or PET scans to assess spread (metastasis).
Treatment
1.Surgery: Excision of the melanoma and surrounding tissue.
2.Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system to fight melanoma cells.
3.Targeted Therapy: Drugs targeting specific genetic mutations.
4.Chemotherapy: Drugs to kill or inhibit rapidly dividing cells.
Melanoma Overview
- Surgery Time: 1 to 3 hours
- Stay in the Country: 1 to 2 weeks
- Rehabilitation Duration: 2 to 4 weeks
- Price: €8,000 to €20,000
- Initial Consultation: Diagnosis through skin examination, biopsy, and consultation with a dermatologist or oncologist.
- Pre-Surgery: Pre-operative tests to determine the extent of the melanoma and surgical planning.
- Surgery: Removal of the melanoma, which may involve a wide local excision or sentinel node biopsy, lasting 1 to 3 hours.
- Post-Surgery: Hospital stay for 1 to 2 days to monitor recovery.
- Rehabilitation: Short recovery period with follow-up for wound care and monitoring.
- Final Recovery: Regular follow-up appointments to check for recurrence and manage any post-surgical issues.
