Melanoma

Remember: melanoma ≠ myeloma

1. What, in general, is a melanoma? A tumor of melanin-forming cells (melanocytes from the basal layer of the epidermis.) Typically a malignant tumor associated with skin cancer, it’s the most dangerous type of skin cancer (could spread and become lethal.) Fortunately easily treatable if detected and treated early.

2. Name and describe the four basic types of melanomas:

a. Superficial spreading melanoma

Most common type (70 % of all cases.) Grows along the top layer of the skin for a fairly long time before penetrating more deeply. The first sign is the appearance of a flat or slightly raised discolored (tan, brown, black, red, blue or white) patch that has irregular borders and is somewhat asymmetrical in form. This type of melanoma can occur in a previously benign mole.

b. Lentigo maligna Similar to the superficial spreading type, as it also remains close to the skin surface for quite a while, and usually appears as a flat or mildly elevated mottled tan, brown or dark brown discoloration. This type of in situ melanoma is found most often in the elderly, arising on chronically sun-exposed, damaged skin.

c. Acral lentiginous melanoma Usually appears as a black or brown discoloration under the nails or on the soles of the feet or palms of the hands. This type of melanoma is sometimes found on dark-skinned people, and can often advance more quickly than superficial spreading melanoma and lentigo maligna.

d. Nodular melanoma Usually invasive at the time it is first diagnosed. The malignancy is recognized when it becomes a bump. It is usually black, but occasionally is blue, gray, white, brown, tan, red or skin tone. Most frequently found on the trunk, legs, and arms, mainly of elderly people, as well as the scalp in men. This is the most aggressive of the melanomas

3. Of the four types, which one would you, as an American teenager, be most likely to get? Superficial spreading melanoma

4. How can you tell the difference between a mole and a melanoma? Generally round and regularly shaped Asymmetrical with irregular borders

Moles are benign pigmented tumors

5. In terms of ranking, how common is melanoma for your age group? Second most common form of cancer for ages 15-29

6. What are four factors that can determine if you are likely to develop a melanoma (or skin cancer in general)?

a. Fairness of skin

b. Family history

c. Personal history

d. Immune suppression

Other factors could be: Lifestyle Location where you live Age Gender

7. In terms of safety, how do tanning beds compare to just lying out in the sun?

8. What is the nature of a melanoma? (does it remain benign or does it tend to metastasize?)

9. What type of doctor specializes in detecting melanoma?

10. Name two other skin cancers besides melanoma: a. Basal cell carcinoma b. Squamous cell carcinoma

11. If I have a classroom of 30 fair-skinned students, how many of them (statistically speaking) will develop some form of skin cancer before they are 65 years old? Up to 15

12. If you have a mole that you suspect may be a melanoma, what are the ABCDEs to consider?

A. (not geometrically balanced) Asymmetry

B. (irregular) Borders

C. (variegated) Color

D. (greater than 6 mm) Diameter ¼ inch

E. (changing over time) Evolving

13. What preventative measures can you take to avoid skin cancer?

Seek the shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM. Do not burn. Avoid tanning and never use UV tanning beds. Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses. Use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day. For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB)sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating. Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of six months. Examine your skin head-to-toe every month. See your physician every year for a professional skin exam