Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops when the pigment-producing cells in the skin, called melanocytes, grow uncontrollably. Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer because it can spread to other areas of the body, making early detection and treatment crucial to improving outcomes. Suncoast Skin Solutions is a trusted dermatology clinic in Sarasota, specializing in skin cancers like melanoma.

Symptoms

Melanoma can appear anywhere on the body, but it most commonly develops on areas that are frequently exposed to the sun. Symptoms of melanoma can include:

• A new, unusual, or changing mole
• A mole that is asymmetrical
• A mole with an irregular or poorly defined border
• A mole that is more than one color
• A mole that is larger than a pencil eraser

Causes

The exact cause of melanoma is not fully understood, but experts believe that exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds is a major risk factor. Other risk factors for melanoma include:

• Having fair skin, light-colored eyes, or red or blonde hair
• Having family members with a history of melanoma
• Having a history of sunburns or excessive sun exposure
• Having a compromised immune system

Diagnosis

If you notice any unusual changes to your skin or newly developed moles, it is important to see one of our Sarasota melanoma treatment specialists for an evaluation. The doctor may perform a biopsy, which involves removing a small specimen of the suspected patch to examine under a microscope. If melanoma is diagnosed, they may order further tests to determine if the cancer has spread to other regions of the body.

Treatment

Melanoma treatments and skin cancer surgeries at our Sarasota office depend on the stage of the cancer and other factors, such as the location and size of the tumor. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery to remove the cancerous tissue
• Radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells
• Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells
• Immunotherapy to help the immune system fight the cancer

In addition to medical treatment, it is important to protect your skin from further damage by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen protection with a high SPF, and avoiding tanning beds and excessive sun exposure.

Early detection is key to improving outcomes with melanoma treatments and therapies at our Sarasota office. If you notice any unusual changes to your skin or moles, get in touch with Suncoast Skin Solutions right away and schedule an appointment with one of our Sarasota skin cancer doctors.