This particularly nasty form of sun-induced skin cancer occurs mainly on sun-exposed sites, particularly the upper back and chest. If untreated, it is usually fatal. There are several varieties such as nodular, superficial spreading, acral and lentigo. International guidelines recommend excision as the primary treatment. Normally, the lesion is removed, analysed in the laboratory, then graded according to certain criteria. The most important prognostic feature under the microscope is the Breslow thickness, or depth of the tumour. The thicker the tumour, the worse the outlook. Depending on the thickness of the tumour, the area may need to be re-excised to make sure no tumour has been left behind.
All cases of melanoma are discussed at the East kent Skin Cancer Multidisciplinary Team Meeting (MDT) to guarantee treatment is peer reviewed and in line with National recommendations.
The incidence of melanoma appears to be rising - this may be due to increasing numbers of people going on sunny holidays abroad.
It is important to be sensible regarding ultraviolet / sun exposure, particularly avoiding sunburn, as this seems to be a major factor in the development of melanoma.
The incidence of melanoma appears to be rising - this may be due to increasing numbers of people going on sunny holidays abroad.
It is important to be sensible regarding ultraviolet / sun exposure, particularly avoiding sunburn, as this seems to be a major factor in the development of melanoma.
If you are worried about a mole that begins to change, get it checked out sooner rather than later.
