What Is Melanoma?
Melanoma is one of the least common but more aggressive types of skin cancer. It develops when the melanocytes — cells that generate pigment within the skin — grow out of control. This variation of skin cancer manifests as an existing spot that turns darker in hue expands in size, or changes its appearance and has jagged edges. Usually, pale-skinned individuals are more likely to develop melanoma, but it can impact anyone and everyone, regardless of skin tone. At Pure Skin Dermatology & Aesthetics, our compassionate team offers preventive skin cancer assessments to spot irregular moles on the skin before any symptoms of melanoma start to become apparent. Moreover, our providers can perform skin biopsies to analyze the spot and decide the ideal treatment strategy if the mole is, in fact, melanoma. Whether you have a specific skin concern you'd like to investigate or you're due for a skin cancer screening, we invite you to contact our Orlando, FL practice to set up your next appointment.
How Do You Treat Melanoma?
Melanoma is most responsive to treatment when it's identified and addressed early in its development. In order to detect melanoma before the disease progresses, Pure Skin Dermatology & Aesthetics recommends scheduling regular skin cancer examinations as part of your skin care regimen. During your visit, we will carry out a complete health exam and examine any spots or rashes that may be a sign of trouble. If we find any moles or lesions that are cause for concern, we will conduct a skin biopsy for further examination to see if it might be melanoma. This test involves numbing the area and removing the full growth or a tiny portion.
What Are the Signs of Melanoma?
When doing self-exams for melanoma, it's useful to remember the ABCDE rules:
- A: Asymmetrical (one half of the mole doesn't match the other)
- B: Borders (having abnormal, ragged, or faint margins)
- C: Color (being dark or having different colors)
- D: Diameter (possessing a width equal to or more than 6mm, which is close to the diameter of a pencil eraser)
- E: Evolving (changing in size, shape, or color)
It is crucial to come in for periodic full-body skin examinations at Pure Skin Dermatology & Aesthetics to have all parts examined for any traces of skin cancer.
Melanoma Reviews
The staff & Doctor at Pure Skin were wonderful. I was concerned about skin cancer & were extremely thorough and compassionate. I had a few biopsies & they made me feel comforted. I look forward to having healthier & more beautiful skin as I continue treatments at Pure Skin.
Dr. Grayman, does my skin checks for skin cancer. She is most thorough! And her staff is most professional as well. 😊
Dr. Debra L. Grayman is a professional and carrying a human being. I have been at my dermatologies offices, and never another doctor has done such a thorough exam. I suffer from skin cancer in the past, and I need an evaluation every six months. Dr. Grayman is the only one that checks every inch, looking for any anomaly on my skin. I 100% recommend her.
The staff & Doctor at Pure Skin were wonderful. I was concerned about skin cancer & were extremely thorough and compassionate. I had a few biopsies & they made me feel comforted. I look forward to having healthier & more beautiful skin as I continue treatments at Pure Skin.
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Total Reviews
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Average Rating
Melanoma FAQ
At what age does melanoma often develop?
Melanoma can occur at any age, but its incidence increases as patients get older. The average age when a patient is diagnosed with melanoma is approximately 63 years, but it's also one of the most common cancers among younger adults, particularly women under the age of 30. That's why regular skin exams and cancer screenings are critical.
How quickly can melanoma metastasize in the body?
The rate at which melanoma spreads varies based on a number of factors, including tumor thickness, subtype, and your overall health profile. Certain forms of melanoma (like nodular melanoma) are known for their rapid progression and can become life-threatening within weeks if not promptly treated.
How can you prevent melanoma?
The best way to reduce your risk of melanoma is to minimize exposure to UV radiation by wearing protective clothing, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, and limiting your time in sunlight during peak hours. Regular self-examinations and professional screenings can also help mitigate your risk of skin cancer and ensure a more effective treatment.
What happens during a skin biopsy?
A skin biopsy involves taking a small sample of the suspicious mole or lesion. Our team at Pure Skin Dermatology & Aesthetics will then send this sample to a lab for detailed analysis. This procedure helps confirm whether the cells are cancerous and guides the next steps in your treatment plan.
How common is melanoma?
Melanoma is not as common as some other skin cancers, but it is one of the most serious types. While it can affect anyone, individuals with lighter skin tones often face a higher risk. Early detection is crucial, which is why regular skin checks are so important for everyone.
How often do I need a skin exam?
The recommended frequency for skin exams varies based on your personal risk factors and medical history. Our staff in Orlando, FL, can help determine an appropriate screening schedule tailored to your needs. Regular self-exams combined with professional screenings are vital for monitoring your skin health.
Know the Signs of Melanoma
The team at our Orlando, FL skin care practice specializes in diagnosing and treating various forms of skin cancer, including melanoma. If you are anxious about a growth on your skin or have a previous history of skin cancer, we urge you to schedule an examination at Pure Skin Dermatology & Aesthetics. Call us at your earliest convenience to arrange your initial consultation.