Understanding Melanoma
The three main types of skin cancer are basal cell, squamous cell, and melanoma. While melanoma is not the most common, it is the most deadly. More than 68,000 people will be diagnosed with melanoma this year, and more than 8,000 will likely die. Melanoma is the most common form of cancer for young adults between the ages of 25 and 29, and is the second most common form of cancer for adolescents and young adults between 15 and 29 years old. Unfortunately, the number of cases of melanoma is on the rise. Many people do not realize that something on the skin, seemingly harmless with no symptoms, can be deadly. At Naples Dermatology, we continually remind our patients to be cautious, pay attention to their skin, and schedule a check-up once a year. Because early detection accounts for the best prognosis for patients, our team's focus is on early detection and treatment.
“One in five Americans will get skin cancer during their lifetime. ”
What does a melanoma look like?
In order to find a melanoma, you need to look at your skin for any lumps, bumps, or moles. The ABCD's of melanoma detection may help you distinguish a normal mole from an atypical mole or melanoma. Melanomas can develop from a normal area of skin (skin with no moles or prior abnormal coloration) or from an existing mole or freckle.
The ABCD's of melanoma are:
(A) - Asymmetry: One half is unlike the other half.
(B) - Border: An irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined border.
(C) - Color: Is varied from one area to another; has shades of tan, brown, or black; is sometimes white, red, or blue.
(D) - Diameter: While melanomas are usually greater than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser), they can be smaller.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our dermatologists at Naples Dermatology, call today.