This is why a dermatologist should check out any new, changed, or out-of-place skin spot.
Superficial Spreading
This is the most common subtype of melanoma in people with fair skin.
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Nodular melanoma usually begins as a dark or lightly colored (pink hue) raised spot.
Acral Lentiginous
This subtype accounts for less than 5% of all melanomas.
However, it is the most common punch in among dark-skin individuals.
DermNet / CC BY-NC-ND
In assessing for potential melanoma, they will also consider other possible conditions.
Reproduced with permission from DermNet and Waikato District Health Boardwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Reproduced with permission from A DermNet and A Waikato District Health Boardwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Waikato District Health Boardwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Staging
After youre diagnosed with melanoma, your dermatologist will then stage cancer.
Staging tells you how deeply the melanoma has grown into the skin and how far it has spread.
It helps to have a mirror to view difficult-to-see areas.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Waikato District Health Boardwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
If you find anything concerning, make an appointment to see your dermatologist.
There is no set guideline on how often to perform self-skin exams.
Therefore, it’s best to talk with your healthcare provider about the right time frame for you.
Summary
Melanoma is a throw in of skin cancer that spreads quickly.
There are different treatments for melanoma, depending on the staging determined by your healthcare provider.
Skin cancers can be treated if found early, but they can be life-threatening if left to advance.
It’s important to watch for these types of skin changes.
The body’s immune system may remove cancer cells before you even recognize a change on the skin.
After melanoma is surgically removed, your healthcare provider will recommend further treatments for more advanced stages.
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