Melanoma is a severe form of skin cancer that originates in the melanocytes, which produce melanin or the pigment that gives color to the skin. Read on to know more about melanoma and its symptoms, treatment methods, and prevention measures.

Symptoms
The first few symptoms of melanoma are:

• Changes in an existing mole
• Development of an unusual growth or a new pigmented growth on the surface of the skin
• The appearance of moles that are unusual and indicate the presence of melanoma

Melanoma moles
One can characterize and identify moles by understanding the letters ABCDE:

• A:  The letter A stands for asymmetrical appearance
• B:  It stands for irregular borders
• C:  This letter stands for moles that depict an unequal distribution of color or moles with multiple colors
• D:  The letter D signifies the diameter of the mole; if the mole grows larger than 6 mm, it could be cancerous
• E:  The letter E is for the evolution in the size, color, or the shape of a mole over time

Hidden melanomas
If melanoma occurs in parts of the body that have minimal exposure to the sun, it is known as hidden melanoma. This is commonly observed on the scalp, palms, or soles, or in the genitals. People with darker skin usually develop hidden melanomas, including:

• Melanoma in the eyes
• Melanoma in the digestive tract, vagina, mouth, or urinary tract
• Melanoma under the nails

Treatment options
The treatment method for melanoma primarily depends on the stage and severity of cancer and the patient’s personal preferences and overall health. Small melanomas can be treated through surgery in the early stages. The following treatment options are available for melanoma that has spread:

• Surgery for the removal of the affected lymph nodes
  If the melanoma has spread to the lymph nodes, immediate surgery needs to be performed to get rid of the affected nodes. A patient might also need additional treatment, both pre- and post-surgery.
• Immunotherapy
  This therapy gives strength to the body’s immune system to fight the disease.
• Targeted therapy
  Under this treatment method, specific medications are used to focus on a certain weakness in the cancerous cells to destroy them.
• Radiation therapy
  In this method, powered protons and X-ray beans are used to combat the disease.
• Chemotherapy
  Strong medications are used to destroy the cancer cells under this treatment option. Chemotherapy might be performed either in the form of a pill or intravenously.

It’s essential to be aware of the symptoms of melanoma to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment and follow effective prevention measures.

Prevention measures

• Limited sun exposure, especially between 10 am and 4 pm
• Wearing a sunscreen with SPF 30 or more
• Generously applying sunscreen and reapplying it every 2-3 hours if out in the sun for long
• Wearing clothes that cover the skin
• Avoiding tanning beds or lamps
• Keeping a check on any changes on the skin
• Examining the growth of freckles, bumps, moles, and birthmarks or changes in the size or form of existing moles