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Melanoma Research Paper

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Melanoma is a type of skin cancer and is considered to be the most dangerous form of the disease. Although less commonly diagnosed than other types of skin cancer, melanoma accounts for over 75% of skin cancer deaths. Melanoma develops in cells called melanocytes that are found in the lower part of the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin. Melanocytes are cells that are responsible for creating skin pigmentation, or melanin. Melanin is what gives the skin its natural hue. As skin is exposed to UV rays from the sun, the skin produces more melanin as a natural defense to prevent or delay sunburn.
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are major cause of melanoma. UV rays cause damage to the skin, including damage to the DNA in skin cell. This can lead to cancerous …show more content…
Classification for melanomas are called stages. The Stage refers to the thickness, depth of penetration, and the degree to which the melanoma has spread. Melanomas stage 0 and I are localized; Stage 0 tumors are in situ, meaning that they are noninvasive and have not penetrated below the surface of the skin, while Stage I tumors have invaded the skin but are small, no ulcerated, and are growing at a slow mitotic rate. Stage II tumors, though localized, are larger over 1mm thick and have a mitotic rate of greater than 1/2mm, so they are considered intermediate melanomas. More advanced melanomas Stage III and IV have spread to other part of the …show more content…
Treatment depends on how far the cancer has spread, age and overall general health. For those with early stages of melanoma, surgery to remove the area in question, along with a small margin of healthy surrounding tissue, may be all that is needed for treatment. This may also include having a sentinel node biopsy to ensure that the cancer has not spread. If the cancer is more advanced and has spread, chemotherapy and immunotherapy may be necessary for treatment. Radiation therapy may be used in select cases. Prevention of melanoma skin cancer is avoid UV ray exposure by wearing sunscreen. Wearing sunscreen is the best bets in preventing skin cancer, especially when it spend a lot of time outdoors. Avoiding mid-day sun is also prevention of melanoma skin cancer. This is when the sun’s rays are brightest, causing the most damage to skin. Wearing hats and clothing that cover the skin are excellent ways to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Eyes are also susceptible to sun damage, so be sure to wear sunglasses that have UV

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