Melanoma Treatment: Options for Care and Follow-up
Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that develops when melanocytes — the pigment-producing cells in the skin — grow uncontrollably. Early detection often begins with noticing changes in a mole or a new, unusual spot. Treatment varies widely depending on how deep the tumor is, whether it has spread, and individual health factors. This article summarizes common diagnostic steps, surgical and non-surgical treatments, follow-up care, and prevention strategies related to melanoma and related skin concerns such as moles and sunburn effects.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.
What is melanoma and how does it start?
Melanoma arises from melanocytes and most commonly appears on sun-exposed areas of the skin, though it can occur anywhere pigment cells exist. It may begin in an existing mole or emerge as a new dark spot. Key warning signs include asymmetry, irregular borders, color variation, diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and evolving appearance. While a single visual check cannot diagnose melanoma, these changes prompt clinical evaluation with dermoscopy and, if suspicious, a biopsy to confirm whether a lesion is malignant.
How is melanoma of the skin diagnosed and staged?
Diagnosis typically requires a skin biopsy, where a portion or the entire suspicious mole is removed and examined under a microscope. If melanoma is confirmed, tests to determine stage may include sentinel lymph node biopsy, imaging (ultrasound, CT, PET), and blood tests as appropriate. Staging evaluates tumor thickness, ulceration, lymph node involvement, and distant spread. Accurate staging guides treatment choices and prognosis estimates, helping clinicians determine whether local therapy alone is sufficient or if systemic treatment is warranted.
What treatment options exist for melanoma cancer?
Treatment depends on stage. For early-stage melanoma, surgical excision with clear margins is the standard, sometimes accompanied by a sentinel lymph node biopsy. For advanced or metastatic cases, options include targeted therapies for tumors with specific genetic mutations (for example, BRAF inhibitors), immune checkpoint inhibitors that bolster the immune response to cancer cells, and historically, chemotherapy in select situations. Radiation therapy can be used to control symptoms or treat certain metastatic sites. Multidisciplinary care often combines approaches tailored to tumor biology and patient health.
When should a mole be checked or removed?
Any mole that changes in size, shape, color, or symmetry should be examined by a healthcare provider experienced in skin conditions. New moles that appear in adulthood, moles that itch or bleed, or lesions with irregular borders merit prompt assessment. A dermatologist may perform a dermatoscopic exam and recommend full removal (excisional biopsy) if malignancy is suspected. Prophylactic removal of benign moles is generally not necessary unless they cause symptoms or present diagnostic uncertainty; decisions should balance benefits and risks of scarring and complications.
Can sunburn affect melanoma risk and prevention?
Intermittent intense sun exposure and a history of sunburn, especially in childhood, are established risk factors for melanoma. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation damages DNA in skin cells, which can accumulate over time and contribute to malignant transformation. Prevention strategies include regular use of broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, seeking shade during peak UV hours, and avoiding indoor tanning. Regular skin checks — both self-exams focusing on moles and professional evaluations — support early detection, which is strongly linked to more effective and less invasive treatment.
Conclusion
Melanoma treatment spans a spectrum from surgical excision for localized tumors to targeted and immune therapies for advanced disease, with staging and tumor biology guiding choices. Monitoring moles and minimizing sunburn risk support prevention and early detection. Coordination among dermatology, oncology, and surgical teams improves individualized care plans and follow-up surveillance to manage recurrence risk and long-term skin health.
