Melanoma is one of the most malignant tumors. It develops from degenerated cells of moles or healthy skin. The peak incidence of melanoma is in the age group 30–39 years, women suffer more often than men. Location: Location: Melanoma is considered the most insidious cancer. Having arisen once, this ailment can develop imperceptibly on the surface of the skin for decades. Once having chosen a weak spot - a mole or a pigmented spot, tumor cells sequentially grow deep into the body and form many metastases to the brain, lungs, liver, lymph nodes, eyes and heart. The deeper they spread, the worse the prognosis. Disruption of the activity of such important internal organs leads to death.
Only early diagnosis of melanoma is the key to successful treatment. It is extremely important to consult a specialist in time for the slightest degeneration of a mole. The following symptoms should be alarming:
- growth of a mole;
- change in its shape, asymmetry, fuzzy boundaries;
- increased pigmentation and especially uneven color;
- itching and soreness;
- wrinkling, peeling;
- hair loss from a mole;
- superficial ulceration or bleeding.
The transformation of pigmented nevi into a malignant tumor is facilitated by their injury, hormonal changes in the body and excessive ultraviolet radiation. The last two factors influence the appearance of melanoma on unchanged skin. About 40% of people with melanoma develop malignant signs soon after the birthmark is injured.
At risk are white-skinned people with red or blond hair, blue eyes and numerous freckles. They quickly burn in the open sun, and this contributes to the occurrence of melanoma. Also at risk are people who have relatives with the same tumor and have a large number of moles.
To reduce the likelihood of skin cancer, including melanoma, you need to protect yourself from the sun. Daily use of sunscreen should become a habit.
Check your skin monthly for unusual moles, blemishes, or non-healing ulcers. Pay special attention to the areas most exposed to the sun - palms, arms, back.
Currently, in the medical environment, it is believed that excision of any nevus is a measure of prevention of melanoma. It is especially recommended to remove moles located on the sole, nail bed, groin, where they are often injured.
