Melanoma Treatment
at Mosaic Dermatology in West Fargo
Melanoma is a less common but highly dangerous form of skin cancer that can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early. At Mosaic Dermatology, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of melanoma, providing comprehensive care to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
What is Melanoma?
Melanoma develops in the melanocytes, the skin cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. Although it is less common than other types of skin cancer, melanoma is more aggressive and potentially life-threatening because of its ability to spread quickly to other organs.
Causes and Risk Factors for Melanoma
Melanoma is primarily caused by DNA damage in skin cells, often due to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Key risk factors include:
- Frequent sunburns, especially blistering sunburns during childhood.
- Excessive UV exposure from sunlight or tanning beds.
- Fair skin, light hair, and light eye color.
- A high number of moles or atypical moles.
- Family history of melanoma.
- Weakened immune system.
- History of previous skin cancer.
Symptoms of Melanoma
Early detection is critical. Symptoms of melanoma often follow the ABCDE rule:
- A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole or spot is unlike the other.
- B – Border: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges.
- C – Color: Varied shades of brown, tan, or black; sometimes red, white, or blue.
- D – Diameter: Melanomas are usually greater than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) but can be smaller.
- E – Evolving: A mole or skin lesion that looks different from the rest or changes in size, shape, or color.
Other warning signs may include:
- A sore that doesn’t heal.
- Pigment spreading from the border of a spot into surrounding skin.
- Itching, tenderness, or pain in a mole or spot.
- Bleeding, oozing, or scaliness.
Melanoma Treatment Options
At Mosaic Dermatology, treatment is tailored to the stage of melanoma, its location, and the patient’s overall health:
Surgical Management
- Wide Excision: The primary treatment for early-stage melanoma, removing the tumor and a margin of healthy skin.
- Referral to Surgical Oncology for Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy and Possible
- Lymphadanectomy: Performed when there is a risk that melanoma has spread to lymph nodes.
Advanced Treatment
- Immunotherapy: Uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. Common drugs include pembrolizumab and nivolumab.
- Targeted Therapy: For melanomas with specific genetic mutations (BRAF mutations), targeted drugs can block cancer growth.
- Chemotherapy: Sometimes used when other treatments aren’t effective.
- Radiation Therapy: May be recommended after surgery to prevent recurrence or treat melanoma that has spread.
Managing and Preventing Lipomas
Preventive measures and early detection are essential:
- Regular skin exams by a dermatologist, especially if you have risk factors.
- Monthly self-exams using the ABCDE rule.
- Daily sunscreen use with SPF 30+.
- Protective clothing and avoiding tanning beds.
- Seeking shade during peak sun hours (10 AM–4 PM).
When to See a Dermatologist
Immediate evaluation is needed if you:
- Notice a new mole or skin spot that looks different from others.
- Have a changing mole in size, shape, or color.
- Experience any itching, bleeding, or discomfort in an existing mole.
Expert Melanoma Care in West Fargo
At Mosaic Dermatology, we are committed to providing expert care for melanoma, including early detection, precise diagnosis, and referral for advanced treatment options. Schedule an appointment today for a comprehensive skin examination and learn how we can help you protect your skin and health.