The skin, our body's largest organ, covers the entire body to protect it from harm, regulate temperature, and produce vitamin D. It comprises three layers: the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis.
The epidermis forms the outermost barrier against threats like ultraviolet (UV) rays. It includes keratinocytes, melanocytes, Langerhans cells, and Merkel cells.
Beneath lies the dermis, housing hair follicles, sweat glands, and fibroblasts that produce collagen for strength and elasticity.
The deepest hypodermis consists of adipocytes (fat cells) for insulation and energy storage.
Skin tumors can be benign, like moles (nevi), or malignant. Moles may sometimes progress to melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer.
Key risk factors include:
Suspect melanoma in a mole showing ABCDE signs:
Quickly changing pigmented spots signal urgency. Lesions may itch, ulcerate, or bleed. These signs warrant a doctor's visit—not all indicate cancer, but early evaluation by a dermatologist is crucial. For more, see the National Cancer Institute's guide on early cutaneous melanoma detection.
If a lesion raises concern, your primary care physician refers you to a dermatologist. They assess size, shape, and color, then perform an excisional biopsy. Pathological analysis confirms cancer.
A full-body exam checks for other suspicious lesions or nevi needing monitoring. Positive cases prompt staging via ultrasound, CT, or MRI, decided by a multidisciplinary team (MDT).
Surgery is primary, often during diagnosis with margins based on tumor thickness. Histology verifies complete removal; further excision, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy may follow if needed.
For metastatic melanoma, options include surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy (most common), and rarely radiotherapy. MDTs tailor plans per stage, explained in announcement consultations.
Treatments aim to cure, control progression, prevent recurrence, or improve quality of life. Plans consider cancer type, stage, and patient history. See the National Cancer Institute's "Treatments for Skin Melanoma" for details.
Supportive care addresses pain, fatigue, and psychosocial needs, available at facilities or locally.
Post-treatment follow-up monitors recurrence, high-risk moles, and side effects via skin exams and imaging (CT/MRI if needed). Education covers sun protection (vital for children in families at risk), self-exams for early detection, and screening first-degree relatives (10% familial cases).
Sources: National Cancer Institute, High Authority for Health. The Management of Your Cutaneous Melanoma: Patient Guide – Long-Term Condition, 2010. National Cancer Institute, High Authority for Health. Malignant Tumour, Malignant Disease of Lymphatic or Hematopoietic Tissue, Cutaneous Melanoma, 2012.
