page_title: Melanoma
section_title: Treatment
hierarchical_section_title: Melanoma / Treatment
caption_attribution_description: English: This image depicts a patient’s chest, which displays numerous darkly-pigmented cutaneous lesions, which had been diagnosed as malignant melanoma (MM). When diagnosing MM from a gross pathologic perspective, i.e., with the naked eye, a physician must keep in mind the “ABCDE” rule, which represents: - A = Asymmetry – Is the shape of the lesion(s) symmetrical, evenly distributed/shaped? - B = Border Irregularity – Is the border of the lesion(s) smooth or rough? - C = Color Variability – Is the lesion(s) multicolored, or of a single color? - D = Diameter – Is the lesion(s) greater than 6mm (0.24in.)? - E = Evolution – How did the lesion(s) evolve over time, i.e., did it appear, or change, quickly, or over a long period of time?
context_page_description: Melanoma, also known as malignant melanoma, is a type of skin cancer that develops from the pigment-producing cells known as melanocytes. Melanomas typically occur in the skin but may rarely occur in the mouth, intestines or eye. In women, they most commonly occur on the legs, while in men they most commonly occur on the back. About 25% of melanomas develop from moles. Changes in a mole that can indicate melanoma include an increase in size, irregular edges, change in color, itchiness or skin breakdown.
  The primary cause of melanoma is ultraviolet light exposure in those with low levels of the skin pigment melanin. The UV light may be from the sun or other sources, such as tanning devices. Those with many moles, a history of affected family members and poor immune function are at greater risk. A number of rare genetic conditions such as xeroderma pigmentosum also increase the risk. Diagnosis is by biopsy and analysis of any skin lesion that has signs of being potentially cancerous.
  Using sunscreen and avoiding UV light may prevent melanoma. Treatment is typically removal by surgery. In those with slightly larger cancers, nearby lymph nodes may be tested for spread.
context_section_description: Confirmation of the clinical diagnosis is done with a skin biopsy. This is usually followed up with a wider excision of the scar or tumor. Depending on the stage, a sentinel lymph node biopsy may be performed. Controversy exists around trial evidence for sentinel lymph node biopsy; with unclear evidence of benefit as of 2015. Treatment of advanced malignant melanoma is performed from a multidisciplinary approach.
caption: Extensive malignant melanoma on a person's chest
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