- Skin Surgeons Edinburgh
- Waterfront Private Hospital
- 0131 376 2744
Melanoma is one of the most serious forms of skin cancer, originating from melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment in the skin. While it accounts for a smaller proportion of skin cancer cases compared to basal cell carcinoma (BCC) or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), it poses a greater risk of spreading and can be life-threatening if left untreated. Early diagnosis and treatment, including melanoma removal, are crucial for successful outcomes.
This guide provides everything you need to know about melanoma, including its causes, symptoms and treatment options.
Page Highlights
Causes and Risk Factors for Melanoma
What to Expect During Initial Melanoma Treatment
Melanoma develops when melanocytes undergo DNA damage, typically due to ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure, causing them to grow uncontrollably. It can appear on any part of the body, including areas not exposed to sunlight, such as the soles of the feet, palms, or under the nails.
•Superficial Spreading Melanoma: The most common type, often starting as an irregular, flat mole that spreads laterally before invading deeper layers of the skin.
•Nodular Melanoma: A more aggressive type that appears as a raised, dark lesion and grows rapidly.
•Lentigo Maligna Melanoma: Usually seen in older individuals, it develops on sun-exposed areas like the face and progresses slowly.
•Acral Lentiginous Melanoma: A rarer type, more common in darker skin tones, that appears on the hands, feet, or under the nails.
Recognizing the early signs of melanoma is critical. Use the ABCDE rule to assess moles or skin changes:
•Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
•Border: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges.
•Color: Uneven colors, including shades of brown, black, red, or white.
•Diameter: Greater than 6mm, although smaller melanomas can still be dangerous.
•Evolving: Any changes in size, shape, or symptoms like itching or bleeding.
Melanoma may also appear as a new, unusual growth or a change in an existing mole. If you notice any of these signs, seek medical advice immediately.
Melanoma is primarily caused by UV radiation from sunlight or artificial sources like tanning beds. However, genetic and lifestyle factors can also contribute.
1. Sunburns: A history of severe sunburns, particularly during childhood, increases the likelihood of developing melanoma.
2. Tanning Beds: Regular use of tanning beds significantly raises melanoma risk.
3. Fair Skin: Individuals with fair skin, freckles, and light hair are at greater risk.
4. Family History: A close relative with melanoma raises your risk.
5. Multiple Moles: Having a large number of moles or atypical (dysplastic) moles is a significant risk factor.
6. Immune Suppression: Conditions or treatments that weaken the immune system can make you more susceptible.
Diagnosis typically begins with a thorough skin examination by a specialist. If melanoma is suspected, the following steps are taken:
1. Dermoscopic Examination: A magnified view of the lesion helps identify suspicious features.
2. Biopsy: The lesion is removed and taken for laboratory analysis to confirm the diagnosis and assess the stage of melanoma.
3. Imaging Tests: For advanced cases, imaging tests may be used to check for the spread of melanoma to lymph nodes or other areas.
The primary treatment for melanoma is surgical removal. The specific approach depends on the stage and location of the melanoma.
1. Excisional Surgery: The melanoma and a margin of surrounding healthy tissue are removed. This is the standard treatment for most melanomas.
2. Wide Local Excision: Additional surrounding tissue is removed if a biopsy confirms melanoma.
3. Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: Recommended for melanomas with a higher risk of spreading to check lymph node involvement.
•Immunotherapy: Medications like checkpoint inhibitors boost the immune system to attack melanoma cells.
•Targeted Therapy: Used for melanomas with specific genetic mutations, these therapies target abnormal proteins in cancer cells.
•Radiotherapy: May be used for advanced melanomas or in cases where surgery is not feasible.
1. Consultation: A skin cancer specialist will examine the lesion and may perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis if there is any doubt.
2. Treatment Plan: Based on the result of the biopsy, a tailored treatment approach will be discussed. Discussion at the local NHS melanoma meeting may be necessary and your care may be transferred into the NHS if further surgery or tests are required.
3. Procedure: An excision biopsy will be performed.
4. Follow-Up Care: Regular check-ups ensure the lesion has been successfully treated and monitor for recurrence. Further tests may be necessary depending upon the biopsy result.
Read more on What to Expect.
Proper aftercare ensures successful healing and reduces the risk of complications:
•Keep the Area Clean: Wash gently with mild soap and water when your dressings are removed.
•Protect from Sunlight: Use sunscreen and avoid sun exposure to prevent further damage.
•Follow Specialists Advice: Adhere to any prescribed ointments or dressings.
Protect your skin and reduce the risk of melanoma with these proactive measures:
•Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
•Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
•Avoid direct sun during peak hours (10 AM to 4 PM).
•Wear protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
•Avoid tanning beds and opt for sunless tanning products instead.
•Check your skin from head to toe monthly, including less visible areas like the scalp, soles of your feet, and under nails.
•Look for the ABCDE signs:
•Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color changes, Diameter over 6mm, Evolving moles.
•See a dermatologist annually for a full-body skin exam.
•If you have risk factors (e.g., fair skin, family history of melanoma), follow your doctor’s recommended check-up frequency.
•Teach children the importance of sunscreen, protective clothing, and shade to reduce their lifetime UV exposure.
•Learn about melanoma risk factors, including fair skin, multiple moles, and family history.
•Be vigilant if you’ve had melanoma or other skin cancers before.
By following these steps, you can help protect your skin and reduce the risk of melanoma. Early detection and prevention are key to maintaining healthy skin.
The cost of melanoma treatment varies depending on the method and complexity:
•Consultation Fee: £100.
•Treatment Costs: Start from £950 for excisional biopsies.
Consider seeing a skin specialist if you notice any of the following:
•Changes in a Mole or Lesion.
•New or Unusual Skin Growths.
•Symptoms of Concern: If a mole or lesion starts to itch, bleed, or cause pain, seek immediate medical advice.
Early consultation with a specialist can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment, improving outcomes.
Choosing a plastic surgeon for melanoma removal ensures that the procedure is performed with precision and expertise, prioritising both complete cancer removal and optimal cosmetic outcomes. Plastic surgeons are highly trained in skin cancer excisions and reconstructive techniques, minimising scarring while addressing the functional and aesthetic aspects of treatment.
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