Melanoma: Early Detection and Treatment
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, developing when the pigment-producing cells in the skin, known as melanocytes, grow uncontrollably. It can spread rapidly if not detected and treated early, making regular skin checks essential for early diagnosis and better treatment outcomes. Australia has one of the highest rates of melanoma in the world due to high levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. Protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure and monitoring for changes in moles or new skin lesions are key to reducing the risk of melanoma.
At Karratha Medical Centre, Dr Amir Waly provides thorough skin cancer assessments, ensuring early detection and appropriate management of melanoma and other skin conditions. Any changes in existing moles, the appearance of new spots, or irregularities in the skin should be evaluated as soon as possible.
Understanding Melanoma and Its Causes
Melanoma occurs when DNA damage in skin cells, often caused by excessive UV exposure, leads to abnormal cell growth. While it can develop anywhere on the body, it most commonly appears on sun-exposed areas such as the face, back, legs, and arms. In some cases, melanoma may also occur in areas that are not regularly exposed to the sun.
Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing melanoma, including fair skin, a history of sunburns, frequent UV exposure, a family history of melanoma, and having a large number of moles or atypical moles. Individuals with these risk factors should take extra precautions and undergo regular skin checks.
Signs and Symptoms of Melanoma
Melanoma can present in different ways, making self-monitoring and professional skin examinations important. The most recognised method for identifying suspicious moles or lesions is the ABCDE rule:
Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
Border: Edges are irregular, blurred, or uneven.
Colour: Variations in colour, including black, brown, red, white, or blue tones.
Diameter: Larger than 6mm, or increasing in size.
Evolving: Changes in size, shape, colour, or new symptoms such as itching or bleeding.
Any mole or skin lesion that exhibits these signs, or any new growth that looks different from other spots on the skin, should be assessed promptly. Early detection significantly improves the likelihood of successful treatment.
Melanoma Treatment Options
The best treatment approach depends on the stage of melanoma at diagnosis. Early-stage melanomas that have not spread can often be treated effectively with minor surgical procedures, while more advanced cases may require additional therapies.
Surgical excision is the primary treatment for early melanoma. This involves removing the affected lesion along with a margin of healthy skin to ensure all cancerous cells are eliminated. The excised tissue is then sent for pathology testing to confirm complete removal.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy may be recommended in cases where there is a concern that melanoma has spread to nearby lymph nodes. This helps determine whether additional treatment is needed.
Immunotherapy and targeted therapy are treatment options for advanced melanoma that has spread beyond the skin. These treatments work by boosting the immune system’s ability to fight cancer cells or by targeting specific genetic mutations within melanoma cells.
Radiation therapy may be used in certain cases where melanoma has spread or when surgery is not an option. This treatment uses controlled doses of radiation to destroy cancerous cells.
Regular follow-up care is essential after melanoma treatment to monitor for any signs of recurrence and to assess overall skin health. Sun protection and routine skin checks remain crucial for preventing further skin damage and reducing the risk of new melanomas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How serious is melanoma?
Melanoma can spread to other parts of the body if not detected early. When diagnosed in its early stages, treatment is highly effective, and the prognosis is generally very good.
What should I do if I notice a changing mole?
Any changes in moles, including variations in colour, size, or shape, should be assessed by a medical professional as soon as possible. Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Can melanoma be prevented?
Reducing UV exposure, wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds can help lower the risk of melanoma. Regular self-examinations and professional skin checks are also important for early detection.
How often should I have a skin check?
Individuals at higher risk, including those with fair skin, frequent sun exposure, or a family history of melanoma, should have regular skin checks. The frequency of checks depends on individual risk factors and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Does melanoma only develop in sun-exposed areas?
While melanoma commonly appears on sun-exposed skin, it can also develop in areas not frequently exposed to sunlight, such as the soles of the feet, under nails, or inside the mouth. Any unusual skin changes should be examined regardless of location.
For professional skin assessments and melanoma detection, Dr Amir Waly at Karratha Medical Centre provides expert care. Early diagnosis and prevention strategies are key to maintaining skin health and reducing the risk of melanoma-related complications.
Book a Consultation
If you are considering treatment, we welcome you to book a consultation. Our priority is to provide ethical, medically appropriate care tailored to your needs.
For more information, visit these reputable sources:
Cancer Council Australia – Melanoma Awareness
Australasian College of Dermatologists – Melanoma
Australian Government Department of Health – Skin Cancer Prevention
Melanoma Institute Australia – Early Detection
HealthDirect Australia – Skin Cancer Information
Disclaimer: Any treatment requires a medical consultation. Individual results may vary.
This information is general in nature and does not replace professional medical advice.
