Symptoms Of Melanoma Skin Cancer | Malignant Melanoma Symptoms

Identifying The Symptoms Of Melanoma Skin Cancer

Knowing how to identify the symptoms of melanoma skin cancer is helpful in ensuring that you get the appropriate treatment for the disease. Of the several types of skin cancers, melanoma is considered the most serious. In its advanced stage, it can cause physical disfigurement and lead to other illnesses and complications. Without timely and appropriate treatment, it can even lead to early death. Thankfully, it can be recognized early and many of the symptoms can be visually assessed so early diagnosis and treatment can be performed.

Understanding Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of cancer that develops in the skin pigment cells known as melanocytes. These are responsible for giving the skin its natural color or pigmentation. It is considered problematic because it could metastasize or spread to other areas, making it more difficult to treat. It is not the most common of skin cancers but it does cause the most casualties. Knowing and identifying melanoma cancer symptoms as early as possible increases the possibility of a cure.

What Are the Common Symptoms of melanoma skin cancer?

During its early stages, the cancerous area of the skin (usually a skin growth, birthmark or mole) will begin changing in shape, color and size. These changes can occur over a period of a few weeks to several months. If there is a suspect spot on the skin, it is a good idea to use the ABCDE reference to determine if it should be watched. This acronym stands for:

Assymetry – when half of the spot does not match the other
Border – when the border appears irregular, blurred or ragged as opposed to smooth and clearly defined
Color – when the pigmentation is not uniform or when different shades of black, tan, brown, white, red or blue appear
Diameter – when the growth is as big as a pencil eraser and getting bigger
Evolution – changes are seen in the shape, size, color and texture or if the growth suddenly itches, begins to feel painful or starts to bleed

Malignant Melanoma Symptoms

It is also a good idea to be familiar with metastatic melanoma symptoms. If melanoma metastasizes, it often spreads to the nearest lymph nodes. Cancerous cells may also find their way in the bloodstream and spread to other tissues and organs such as the liver, lungs, brain and bone. Some common signs that the cancer has spread include: swollen lymph nodes, headaches, unexplained chronic cough, unexplained weight loss, colorless skin growth, grayish skin and seizures.

Eye Cancers

Although it is rare, cancer can also spread to the eyes and develop in certain areas. The most common of this type of cancerous growth is the uveal melanoma, which can affect the uveal tract, including the iris, ciliary body and the choroid, which lines the eyeball. Ocular melanoma symptoms can include blurry vision, shadows even when there is normal lighting and flashing lights. These symptoms are not exclusive to the disease; however, so proper diagnosis by a medical professional is necessary to rule out other possible causes. Anyone who experiences any of these symptoms or other unfamiliar changes in his or her vision should immediately seek out an eye specialist for a proper diagnosis. Keep in mind that the chances of beating melanoma is highest when it is treated the earliest time possible, so knowing what symptoms of melanoma skin cancer to watch out for is critical.

Malignant Melanoma Prognosis: Malignant melanoma prognosis is positive when the cancer is detected and treated in early stages. Attention to skin changes or blemishes is important.
Malignant Melanoma Treatment: Malignant melanoma treatment has come a long way during the past few years, offering patients a chance to live longer, better lives than previously possible.
Superficial Spreading Melanoma: It is important to know the symptoms of superficial spreading melanoma. This will help you to know whether you need to seek medical assistance.
Metastatic Malignant Melanoma: Even those who are careful to never sunburn may still be at high risk for developing melanoma. Family genetics can play a major role in its evolution as well.