Melanoma Treatment
in Scottsdale, AZ
Danger can strike from a clear, sunny sky. Skin cancer is one of the most prevalent types of cancer across the U.S. Many people regularly have their skin exposed to the sun daily, which can increase the risk of developing certain skin cancers, such as melanoma. While skin cancer can be a scary topic of discussion, it’s important to familiarize yourself with risk factors, early signs, and treatment options to reduce your chance of skin cancer.
What Is Melanoma?
Melanoma, often referred to as the deadliest type of skin cancer, starts in the melanocytes. Melanocytes produce melanin, giving the skin its color. When changes in the DNA of the melanocytes occur, cancer cells multiply quickly while healthy cells die. These cancer cells can cause a tumor to develop and spread to other parts of the body.
Melanoma is often referred to as the deadliest type of skin cancer.
In most cases, early signs of melanoma appear in the form of abnormal moles. These abnormal moles can develop as new growths or form in moles you already have. It is important to perform regular skin checks on yourself so you can see if there are any changes in the shape, border, color, or diameter of your moles. Changes in your moles can be a sign of melanoma, so it’s essential to see a dermatologist if you notice any differences.
What Causes Melanoma?
Medical professionals do not have clear information on what exactly causes the DNA in the melanocytes to change, resulting in melanoma. Some factors that increase the risk of melanoma include:
- UV (ultraviolet) light exposure (from the sun and tanning beds)
- A history of blistering sunburns
- A family history of melanoma
- Having a weak immune system
- Having pale skin, light-colored eyes, and/or naturally blond or red hair
- Being 50 or older
- Having freckles or developing freckles easily
- Having many moles, especially atypical ones
Early detection of melanoma is key for treating it and gives you
a higher chance of fully eliminating the cancer before it spreads.
How Do I Know If I Have Melanoma?
Regular skin self-exams are one of the best ways to monitor your skin’s appearance and check on your moles. Make sure to thoroughly check all surfaces of your skin, as moles can grow anywhere, and melanoma can develop anywhere on the skin. Melanoma can also occur in the eyes, mouth, or under the nails. It is recommended that these skin self-exams be performed at least once a month. Visit our Moles and Skin Cancer Screening page to learn about the ABCDE rule and other tips for checking your skin.
When doing your skin checks, if you notice new growths on your skin or changes in your existing moles, you should schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. Early detection of melanoma is key for treating it and gives you a higher chance of fully eliminating the cancer before it spreads and becomes a deadlier problem.
Skin cancer screening is essential for evaluating your skin’s health and protecting yourself.
Besides your regular self-checks, getting a skin cancer screening is essential for evaluating your skin’s health and protecting yourself. A skin cancer screening is a non-invasive procedure where a medical professional examines your skin for any signs of cancer. How often you should have a screening will depend on your age, health, and medical history. When you come in for your first screening, your provider will let you know how frequently you should come in for a screening.
Schedule your skin cancer screening with the Skin & Cancer Center of Scottsdale today to take action for your skin health and prevent melanoma.
What Are My Options for Melanoma Treatment in Scottsdale, AZ?
If melanoma is detected during a skin cancer screening, your physician assistant will create a treatment plan for dealing with it. Often, melanoma is treated through being surgically removed. This is an effective treatment method if the melanoma is caught before it spreads to other areas.
If the melanoma has spread, then your physician assistant may recommend radiation therapy. Lymph node biopsies and ultrasounds may also be needed to check if the cancer is in these surrounding areas.
Want to Learn More About Melanoma Treatment in Scottsdale, AZ?
To learn more about melanoma or to schedule a skin cancer screening at the Skin & Cancer Center of Scottsdale, call us at (480) 596-1110 or fill out our online contact form today.
Get In Touch
"*" indicates required fields
Our Locations
Scottsdale, AZ:
11000 North Scottsdale Rd. Suite 120
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Carefree, AZ:
36800 North Sidewinder Rd. Suite A-2
Carefree, AZ 85377
Maricopa, AZ:
19756 North John Wayne Pkwy. Suite 101
Maricopa, AZ 85139
