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Melanoma is a serious and dangerous form of skin cancer that develops due to damaged DNA in melanocytes — pigment-producing cells. It is usually caused by overexposure to UV lights.
What is it?
Melanoma is a virulent form of skin cancer that originates from the melanocyte cells - these cells are responsible for the color of your skin. Overexposure to ultraviolet light sources, such as the sun, sun lamps, and tanning beds, can damage the DNA in melanocytes. Over a period of time, this damage can result in mutations, which can lead to skin cancer. Melanoma has the potential to rapidly spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated promptly, making early detection crucial.
Alongside your yearly skin examination with a board-certified professional at Buckeye Dermatology, you can conduct regular self-examinations utilizing the ABCDE method:
If you notice a spot or mole that has any of these signs, you should consult a dermatologist immediately. You can reduce your melanoma risk by decreasing your exposure to the sun and shielding your skin from UV rays.
How is it treated?
Should you notice an unusual mole or skin mark, be sure to book an appointment with one of our specialists in Springfield, Grove City, or Dublin, Ohio. At Buckeye Dermatology, our team will conduct an on-site skin biopsy to investigate suspicious areas. The collected tissue sample will then be forwarded to a dermapathologist to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. The melanoma treatment administered will depend on the category of melanoma you have and its stage of progression: 0, I, II, III or IV. Regardless of your stage, our medical practice is prepared to offer professional, empathetic care.
Our team possesses specialized education and accreditation in a wide range of melanoma treatments, encompassing surgical excision, Mohs surgery, immunotherapy, targeted drug therapy, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. As members of DOCS Dermatology Group, our team also has the advantage of access to innovative clinical trials for cancers that do not respond well to conventional treatments.