Also, any spot or growth that begins to itch, bleed, hurt, scab or crust could signal a problem. It can be cured, but early detection is critical. Ill. To get rid of it, she had an 'ice cream scoop' shape surgically removed from her leg, followed by a skin graft. The average age is 46. If you notice anything on your skin that makes you nervous, have it checked by a physician, preferably a dermatologist.
Malignant melanoma is treated by surgery and sometimes by the removal of nearby lymph nodes.
Advanced cases are treated with radiation, immunotherapy or chemotherapy, although survival rates drop once the cancer has spread beyond its original site. The best way to prevent skin cancer is to stay out of the sun when you can and to protect yourself when you can't. Use a hand mirror in front of a large mirror to check your back, including the back of your neck and legs. Avoid prolonged sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when ultraviolet rays are the strongest. Use 'broad spectrum' sunscreen or sunblock, which will protect you against both UVA and UVB radiation.