Melanoma is an invasive skin cancer that can be life threatening if not treated. Prevention and early treatment are critical. Symptoms may include a new, unusual growth or a change in an existing mole. Melanomas can occur anywhere on the body. Please know what to look for by reading more below.
The Most Serious Skin Cancer — Caught Early, It Can Be Treated.
Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, but when detected early, it’s also one of the most treatable. At Meira Dermatology, we provide thorough skin cancer screenings and expert care to help you spot melanoma early — and take fast, effective action when needed.
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops in melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin pigmentation (melanin). Unlike other skin cancers, melanoma is more likely to grow quickly and spread to other parts of the body — making early detection and treatment critical.
Melanoma most often appears as:
- A new or changing mole
- A mole that looks different from others (“ugly duckling”)
A dark spot under the nails, on the palms, soles, or mucous membranes
Knowing what to look for can save your life. Watch for these common signs:
- A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other
- B – Border: Irregular, ragged, or blurred edges
- C – Color: More than one color (brown, black, red, white, or blue)
- D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
- E – Evolving: Changing in size, shape, or color
Additional warning signs:
- A mole that itches, bleeds, or becomes crusty
- A new mole after age 25
- A sore that doesn’t heal or keeps returning
Melanoma can be caused by UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds, as well as genetic factors. Risk factors include:
- Fair skin or a history of sunburn
- Family or personal history of melanoma
- Having many moles or atypical moles
- Weakened immune system
- Excessive sun exposure without protection
If you notice any suspicious skin changes, schedule a skin check immediately. At Meira Dermatology, we will:
- Perform a full skin exam
- Use a dermatoscope to examine concerning moles
- Recommend a biopsy if needed to confirm a diagnosis
Treatment depends on the stage and depth of the melanoma. Options may include:
- Surgical excision to remove the tumor
- Mohs surgery for high-risk facial melanomas
- Immunotherapy or targeted drug therapy for advanced melanoma
- Lymph node evaluation if there’s a risk of spreading
Early-stage melanomas are often curable with minor surgery. Late-stage melanomas require more intensive treatment, which is why regular monitoring is so important.
To reduce your risk of melanoma:
Practice sun safety:
- Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
- Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors
- Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
- Avoid tanning beds
Know your risk:
- About 10% of melanomas are linked to family history
- Let your dermatologist know if melanoma runs in your family
- Check your skin monthly and schedule annual full-body exams, especially if you have a history of sun exposure or multiple moles.
Meira Dermatology is here to help you take control of your skin health with expert evaluations, compassionate care, and advanced treatment options.
Located in Largo, FL, we serve patients from Clearwater, Seminole, St. Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, Belleair, Pinellas Park, and the entire Tampa Bay region.
Call us today at (727) 777-6098
Or schedule a skin cancer screening online
Early detection saves lives. Don’t wait — if something doesn’t look or feel right, let us check it out right away.
