melanoomaan

Melanoma is a malignant skin cancer that arises from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin. It is less common than basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers but is more likely to grow and spread if not detected early. Melanomas can occur anywhere on the body, but are more frequent on sun-exposed areas such as the trunk in men and the legs in women.

Risk factors for melanoma include ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sun exposure or tanning beds, fair skin, a history of sunburns, a high number of moles or atypical (dysplastic) moles, a family history of melanoma, and certain genetic mutations. Age and rare conditions that suppress the immune system can also influence risk.

Early detection relies on noticing changes in existing moles or new pigmented lesions. The ABCDE criteria are often used: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter greater than 6 millimeters, and Evolving in size, shape, or color. Diagnosis is confirmed by biopsy and histopathological examination. Staging considers tumor thickness (Breslow depth), ulceration, lymph node involvement, and distant metastasis.

Treatment for localized melanoma is primarily surgical excision with appropriate margins. Sentinel lymph node biopsy may be performed for certain tumors. Advanced or metastatic melanoma may require systemic therapies, including immune checkpoint inhibitors (for example, pembrolizumab, nivolumab, ipilimumab) and targeted therapies for BRAF-mutant tumors (such as dabrafenib plus trametinib). Radiotherapy is used in specific cases.

Prevention emphasizes sun protection, avoidance of tanning beds, protective clothing, and regular skin checks, especially for individuals with multiple moles or a family history of melanoma. Prognosis depends on stage, depth of invasion, and the presence of metastasis.