Melanoma

Melanoma is a serious and dangerous form of skin cancer that develops due to damaged DNA in skin cells. It is usually caused by overexposure to the sun.

What is it?

Melanoma is a severe form of skin cancer that originates in the melanocyte cells, which are responsible for giving our skin its color. Exposure to excessive ultraviolet light (like from the sun, tanning beds and sun lamps) can harm the DNA in melanocytes. Over time, this damage may lead to mutations, resulting in skin cancer. Melanoma has the potential to spread rapidly to other body parts if not identified and treated promptly. Early detection of melanoma is very important.

In addition to your yearly skin examination with a board-certified provider at Dermatologists of Southwest Ohio, you can conduct regular self-checks using the ABCDE technique. Immediately consult with a dermatologist if you notice a spot or mole exhibiting:

A - An asymmetrical shape

B - Borders that are uneven

C - Colors that differ from one section to another

D - Diameter larger than the size of a pencil eraser

E - Evolution in its size, shape, or color from a previous check

You can reduce your melanoma risk by limiting sun exposure and safeguarding your skin from UV rays. While we understand that being in the sun can be fun, it can also be harmful to your skin. Sun damage can accumulate throughout the year in Ohio, even in the winter. We recommend using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and minimizing your exposure to the sun's harmful rays.

How is it treated?

If you notice a questionable mole or blemish, book an appointment promptly with a dermatology provider. The first step toward treatment is diagnosis. Our board-certified providers start with a visual exam. If necessary, we will remove a small sample of your tissue for further evaluation by a dermatopathologist in our lab.

The laboratory analysis verifies if your cells are malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous). If it is cancer, we'll determine the stage of your cancer 0, I, II, III or IV. Regardless of your phase, our expert providers are committed to providing your top-quality, empathetic care. Our practice has expertise in a full range of melanoma treatments including surgical excision, Mohs surgery, immunotherapy, targeted drug therapy, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

If you have a suspicious spot, please don't hesitate to schedule with one of our offices in Batavia, Beavercreek, Bridgetown, Cincinnati, Dayton, Dent, Greenville, Hillsboro, Kettering, Mason, Montgomery, Oxford, Troy, West Chester or Wilmington, Ohio.

THE TREATMENTS BELOW CAN HELP WITH MELANOMA:

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Mohs Surgery

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