Melanoma is a skin cancer originating in the cells accountable for producing melanin, the pigment that appropriates color to the skin, hair, and eyes. It is severe and can cause a life-threatening condition, but early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes. This article will explore the causes, signs, symptoms, and treatment options for melanoma.

Causes
The leading cause of melanoma is believed to be excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or any other artificial sources, such as tanning beds. Other factors that can contribute to the development of melanoma include:

• Sun exposure: Intense and prolonged exposure to the sun increases the risk of developing melanoma, especially with sunburns or blistering. This risk is higher in individuals with fair skin, light-colored hair, and many moles.
• Family history: A family history of melanoma or specific genetic mutations, such as mutations in the CDKN2A or CDK4 genes, can increase the risk of developing the disease.
• Personal health history: Individuals with melanoma are at an increased risk of developing additional melanomas.
• Weakened immune system: Immunosuppression, either from prescriptions or underlying conditions such as HIV/AIDS, can increase the risk of developing melanoma.

Signs and symptoms
Melanoma can manifest as a new or changing mole or as an abnormal growth on the skin. It is essential to be aware of the following signs and symptoms:

• Asymmetry
  Melanomas are often irregularly shaped, with one half differing from the other.
• Border
  The borders of a melanoma may be uneven, scalloped, or not well-defined.
• Color
  Melanomas often have varied colors, including shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue.
• Diameter
  Melanomas are typically larger than an ordinary mole, with a size greater than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser).
• Evolving
  Melanomas may change in size, shape, color, or elevation over time.
• Itching, bleeding, or ulceration
  Melanomas can be accompanied by symptoms such as itching, bleeding, or developing an open sore (ulceration).

Treatment
Once a diagnosis of melanoma is established, the treatment plan will depend on the stage and extent of the disease.

• Surgical excision
  The primary treatment for localized melanoma is surgically removing the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue. This aims to remove the cancerous cells and prevent their spread.
• Sentinel lymph node biopsy
  In cases where melanoma has a higher risk of spreading, a sentinel lymph node biopsy may be performed. This involves removing the first lymph node(s) that cancer cells are likely to apply to, helping determine the stage of the disease, and guiding further treatment decisions.
• Lymph node dissection
  Surgical removal of the affected lymph nodes may be recommended if the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
• Radiation therapy
  Radiation therapy may destroy cancer cells or relieve symptoms in cases where melanoma has spread to other body parts.

Melanoma is a severe skin cancer that requires prompt attention. Learning about its causes, recognizing the signs and symptoms, and seeking early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for better outcomes. Protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure, regularly examining the skin for changes, and consulting with healthcare professionals for evaluation are essential steps in preventing and managing melanoma. If you suspect you may have melanoma or have concerns about your skin health, it is necessary to consult with a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment recommendations.