David J Phillips
M.B., B.S., F.R.C.S. (Ed) F.R.A.C.S.
SURGEON
MELANOMA
What is a Melanoma:
Melanoma is a very serious and deadly form of skin cancer
which usually starts to grow within a mole on the surface of the
skin. As the cancer develops it may enter the blood and lymph
systems to locate in other parts of the body.
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What is a BCC:
A Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is
the most common and least dangerous of skin cancers. It appears a
s lump or scaling area, (red, pale or pearly in
colour). They are usually found on the head, neck and
upper torso and become ulcerated as they grow. A BBC should
always be excised.
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What is an SCC:
A Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is
not as dangerous as a melanoma. However this type of skin cancer
can spread to other parts of the body if not treated. An SCC will
grow over several months on areas most exposed to the sun. As it
grows the area becomes a thickened red, scaly spot which may
bleed or ulcerate. An SCC should always be excised.
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What is the
major cause of Melanoma:
The exact reasons for melanoma are not completely understood.
It is the deadliest skin cancer. If left untreated it will spread
to other parts of the body. It is known that fair skinned races
that live in the tropics have a much higher rate of melanoma. The
incidence of the disease appears to be rising rapidly.
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What
changes in moles should a patient look for:
The patient should look for a change in colour, shape or size
of any mole. These should be brought to the attention of your
general practitioner immediately. Please note that early
detection will greatly increase the survival chances of the
patient. Melanomas can grow on any part of the body, including
under nails, sole of feet of feet and areas not exposed to the
sun. Full body examination should be carried out routinely and
any change should be reported to your doctor immediately.
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Who
is most at risk of developing melanoma:
The most important factors are a family history of melanoma,
an excessive number (say more than 50)
moles on the body and moles of unusual appearance (called
dysplastic naevi). Other factors will include patients
with a history of severe sunburn, many freckles, fair skin,
living in areas of high UV radiation form the sun. Medical
conditions or treatments for HIV/AIDS, cancer or organ transplant
can also predispose the patient to development of melanoma.
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What
is the role of the surgeon in the treatment of Melanoma:
Usually the melanoma will be diagnosed by the patient’s
general practitioner who may then refer the patient to a surgeon
for a full excision of the area. Sometimes a mole suspected of
being a melanoma will be excised by either the general
practitioner or the surgeon and sent to the pathologist for
examination. This histological examination will give the surgeon
some indication of the level of penetration into the layers of
the skin and possible escape to nearby lymph glands. Based on
this information the surgeon will perform a second excision. This
will often involve excising a large area around the mole which
may require a skin graft. In addition the surgeon is likely to
excise lymph glands close by which will be examined by the
pathologist is see if the melanoma has started to spread.
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How
can I find out more information about melanoma:
When you visit Dr Phillips, he will give you a detailed
discussion regarding recommended treatment and prognosis. In
addition he will give you a four page brochure published by the Royal
Australasian College of Surgeons which will give you more
information to take home with you.
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In the meantime, if you would like to research the condition
of Melanoma on the Internet the following sites are recommended.
Please remember that each case is individual and at the end of
the day, your surgeon will advise you on what is the best
treatment for your particular medical condition.
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| What is Cancer. What is Skin Cancer. How is Skin Cancer Diagnosed. Treatment of Skin Cancer. Sun Protection Tips. |
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| Why you need to know about melanoma. How does Melanoma start & who is at risk. Photos of normal & atypical moles. How to check your skin, what to look for. Protecting your children and yourself. Information sources & links to related sites. How can you save lives. |
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