Melanoma Specialist

Melanoma

Combating the Deadliest Skin Cancer: Melanoma Treatment in North Richland Hills

Out of the three main types of skin cancer, melanoma is the least common and the most deadly. If you or a loved one receives a melanoma diagnosis, you can rely on the team at Northstar Dermatology in North Richland Hills. They offer expert treatment options and can help you navigate the complexities of cancer treatment. Book a consultation today by calling the office or scheduling online.

Northstar Dermatology:
Dermatology located in North Richland Hills, TX. Also serving Southlake, Colleyville, Keller, Hurst, Euless, Bedford, and Fort Worth, TX.

Melanoma
Q & A

What Is Melanoma?
Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that starts in your melanocytes, the cells responsible for creating the pigment, or melanin, that gives your skin its unique color. Melanoma can also develop in the eyes, intestines, or any part of your body that contains pigmented tissues.

You may be at a higher risk of developing melanoma if you have the following:

  • Overexposure to sunlight
  • Exposure to UV radiation
  • Fair skin and sun sensitivity
  • Immune system deficiency

In addition, if you have a family history of melanoma or have had a previous diagnosis of melanoma, your risk of developing melanoma increases.
What Are The Signs Of Melanoma?
Melanoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer, and early diagnosis can have a significant effect on the progression of the disease. Knowing what to look for is essential, and routine skin checks should be part of your at-home health routine.

Melanoma most commonly develops as changes in existing moles or abnormalities in new moles. One way to remember the signs and symptoms of melanoma in moles is to think ABCDE:

  • Asymmetry, when the shape of one side does not match the other
  • Border, when the edges of a mole are blurred, ragged, or notched
  • Color, when various shades are present in one mole
  • Diameter, when a mole grows larger
  • Evolving, when a mole changes over a few weeks or months

If you notice a mole that displays one or several of these characteristics, schedule a diagnostic exam at Northstar Dermatology right away.
How Is Melanoma Treated?

The team at Northstar Dermatology develops a treatment plan depending on the stage of your melanoma, your overall health, and other factors.

Surgery is often the first step and focuses on removing the tumor and a portion of the surrounding tissue. If a significant amount of tissue is excised, a skin graft using healthy skin from another area of your body is used to repair the surgical wound.

After the procedure, your surgeon may recommend chemotherapy, which uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells or prevent them from multiplying. Another option is radiation therapy, which uses X-rays or other tools to prevent cancer cells from multiplying and kills existing cancer cells.

Immunotherapy is an option that boosts your body’s natural immune function to fight off cancer. There are several types of immunotherapy to choose from. Targeted therapy is another approach that introduces drugs, viruses, or other substances to destroy or inhibit cancer cells.

The team at Northstar Dermatology has extensive experience working with melanoma cases and can help you find the right treatment for your specific needs. Call Northstar Dermatology or make an appointment online today to get started.

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