Table of Contents
What are three indications of melanoma?
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that is caused by the mutation of melanocytes. It can appear in various forms and have various signs and symptoms. Three indications of melanoma include:
1. Change in Size, Shape, or Color of a Mole: Melanoma can present as a new mole or a change in an existing mole. This includes changes in the color of the mole, or changes in its shape or size. It may become raised or form a lump or bump, and can vary in color from tan to black or brown.
2. Uneven Borders: If a mole has wiggly, uneven borders then this may be a sign of melanoma.
3. Itchy, Painful, or Bleeding Moles: If a mole is itchy, tender, or is bleeding then it may be a sign of melanoma. Additionally, if the mole oozes or crusts over then it is an indication that medical attention should be sought.
How does your body feel when you have melanoma?
The physical symptoms of melanoma vary widely depending on the stage and location of the cancer. However, some of the most common symptoms include a change in the size, shape, or color of a mole or spot on your skin, a new mole or spot, a sore that doesn’t heal, or a bump that is itchy, tender, or bleeds.
Depending on where the melanoma occurs, other symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, and fever might be present. In more advanced stages of melanoma, symptoms such as lymph node swelling, skin ulcers, and bleeding may be present.
Additionally, if melanoma has spread (metastasized), pain and other symptoms may develop in the affected areas of the body.
What does melanoma start out like?
Melanoma typically starts as a dark spot on the skin, known as a mole. These spots are usually brown, black, or tan and can vary in shape and size. The edges may be irregular or notched. In the early stages, melanoma may not appear to be different than other common moles, and may not display any signs of pain, itching, or bleeding.
The distinguishing feature of melanoma will typically be its color, texture, size, or shape. The key sign to look out for is any changes occurring in the size, shape, color, or elevation of a mole. If you notice any of these changes, it is best to seek out a medical professional to be examined further.
Where does melanoma usually start?
Melanoma usually starts in the cells called melanocytes that produce the pigment melanin which gives the skin, hair and eyes color. These cells can be found in the lower layer of the epidermis. Melanoma is more likely to start in skin areas that are often exposed to sunlight, such as the head, face, neck and arms, but it can also start in less exposed parts or even inside the body.
It can start in an existing mole, or arise in skin that has no visible pre-existing spot. Areas around the eyelids, nose, lips, scalp and even genitalia can be affected, though it is less common in the latter areas.
What is melanoma and its symptoms?
Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that affects the melanocytes, which are the cells responsible for giving the skin its pigment. It usually appears as a dark-colored growth, but it can also appear as a skin discoloration, or a mole that has recently changed in color, shape, or size.
It is important to note that not all moles or discolorations are melanoma; however, any suspicious changes should be brought to a doctor’s attention.
Common symptoms of melanoma include:
• A spot or growth on the skin that is large, newly-appearing, raised, and is mostly asymmetrical with unevenly covered color
• A spot or growth on the skin that may bleed and ooze
• A spot or growth on the skin that is constantly itchy or tender
• A spot or growth on the skin that is growing quickly
• Darkening of the skin in an area that was recently injured
• Discoloration of the skin, such as a dark or light brown, or any other unusual pigmentation
• A spot or growth on the skin that is constantly changing in shape, size, or color
It is important to note that individuals should perform monthly self-examinations to identify changes early and seek prompt medical attention.
What are generally the first melanoma signs and symptoms?
The most common signs and symptoms of melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer, involve changes to existing moles on the body or the growth of new moles. The first signs and symptoms of melanoma may include:
• A mole, freckle, or spot on the skin that has asymmetrical, irregular, or blurred borders
• Different colors, shades, or textures within the same mole
• A mole or spot on the skin that is larger than 6 millimeters or the size of a pencil eraser
• A mole or spot on the skin that is itchy, oozing, crusty, or bleeding
It is important to note that melanoma does not always involve changes to pre-existing moles and new moles can also be a sign of the condition. Any changes to the skin should be monitored and checked by a doctor to ensure it is not melanoma.
If you notice any suspicious moles or skin changes, you should make an appointment with your doctor to discuss the next steps.
How long can you have melanoma before noticing?
Melanoma can be present for a long time before it is noticed. It can take months or even years for someone to realize that the mole on their skin has changed in size, shape, or color and could be something more serious.
Generally, it’s best to examine your skin regularly and look for changes in your moles. Moles that are large and irregular in shape, and have an uneven color, can indicate a higher risk of melanoma. If you notice any of these changes, it’s best to contact your doctor or dermatologist.
The earlier melanoma is detected and diagnosed, the more successful treatment can be.
How long does it take for melanoma to spread to organs?
The amount of time it takes for melanoma to spread to other organs depends on a variety of factors, such as the size and location of the original melanoma tumor, the person’s biological make-up, and the aggressiveness of the melanoma.
Generally speaking, melanoma cells can rapidly divide and spread to other areas of the body, including nearby lymph nodes, bones, and organs. On average, it may take months or years for a melanoma to spread, but it is also possible for it to spread very quickly.
For most people, it is important to catch and treat melanoma early in its progress so as to prevent it from reaching the organs. After diagnosis, the melanoma tumor will be assessed for staging, and depending on its development, a doctor may recommend an initial localized treatment, or a more aggressive treatment involving a surgical resection of the tumor.
If the melanoma is in an advanced stage, it may necessitate the use of systemic, whole body treatments like chemotherapy or immunotherapy.
It is important to remember that while treatment can be effective, there is always the possibility of recurrence and/or metastasis, or the spread of cancer to other areas of the body, including organs.
If the cancer does spread, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan. Early detection and treatment of melanoma can help reduce the risk of the disease progressing to other areas of the body, but ultimately, it is important to have consistent skin checks, even if there are no symptoms, to catch the disease early.
