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Melanoma is a serious and dangerous form of skin cancer that develops due to damaged DNA in melanocytes — pigment-producing cells. It is usually caused by overexposure to UV lights.
What is it?
Melanoma is a potent skin cancer that originates from melanocyte cells - the cells responsible for the pigmentation of the skin. The DNA in these cells can become damaged due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light sources such as the sun, tanning beds and sun lamps. Over time, this damage can induce mutations, leading to skin cancer. Melanoma has the ability to rapidly spread to other parts of the body if not identified and treated early, underscoring the importance of early detection.
Alongside your yearly skin check with a board-certified professional at Chapel Hill Dermatology, you can conduct regular self-examinations utilizing the ABCDE method. Seek immediate attention from a dermatologist if a mole or spot exhibits:
A - An asymmetrical shape
B - Borders that are uneven
C - Colors that differ from one region to another
D - Diameter larger than a pencil eraser
E - Evolution in its size, shape or color since the last examination
You can significantly reduce your chances of developing melanoma by reducing your exposure to the sun and shielding your skin from UV rays. While we understand the appeal of the sun, it can also be detrimental. Sun damage can build up throughout the year in Chapel Hill, North Carolina - even during the chilly winter months. Therefore, it's crucial to use SPF 30+ sunscreen and limit your exposure to these harmful rays.
How is it treated?
Should you spot a worrisome mole or blemish, don't hesitate to book an appointment with one of our skin cancer specialists in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The experienced team at Chapel Hill Dermatology is equipped to conduct an in-clinic skin biopsy to examine any dubious spots. Your tissue sample will subsequently be sent to a dermapathologist for an in-depth analysis to check for the presence of cancer cells. The therapeutic approach for melanoma is largely determined by the specific type of melanoma and the stage of the disease - 0, I, II, III or IV. Regardless of the stage, our medical practice is committed to delivering expert and compassionate care.
Our team boasts specialized training and certification in a wide range of melanoma treatments, including surgical excision, Mohs surgery, immunotherapy, targeted drug therapy, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. As a part of DOCS Dermatology Group, our team also has the advantage of access to pioneering clinical trials for cancers that demonstrate less responsiveness to conventional treatments.