Melanoma and Skin Cancer
Most people have heard about the importance of wearing sunscreen and sun protection when they venture outside. Over many years of exposure, skin can be damaged by the UV rays that are emitted from the sun. This can lead to skin cancer.
Definition of Melanoma and Skin Cancer
Melanoma and skin cancer are defined as cells that replicate out of control of the normal regulatory mechanisms of cellular signaling, usually within the skin.
Anatomy of Melanoma and Skin Cancer
The skin is the protective covering and the largest organ of the body. It contains and protects the internal structures. The skin is the first organ that is damaged by any pathologic process. In the case of skin cancer, the UV rays from the sun strike the surface of the skin. These UV rays lead to the development of melanoma and skin cancer.
Causes of Melanoma and Skin Cancer
When the UV rays strike the skin, they can damage the DNA of the cells. This DNA codes for important proteins that control the cell’s response to other cellular signals. If the DNA is damaged, the cells can replicate out of control. This is how melanoma and skin cancer develop.
Symptoms of Melanoma and Skin Cancer
The symptoms of melanoma and skin cancer can vary widely depending on the severity and location of the cancer. Common symptoms include:
- New or increasing size of skin moles
- Change in color of skin lesions
- Fatigue
- Night sweats
- Fever
- Weight Loss
Diagnosis of Melanoma and Skin Cancer
The diagnosis of melanoma and skin cancer starts with a history and physical exam. Any suspicious lesions warrant a biopsy. A small piece of tissue is surgically excised and sent to pathology. The lesion will be examined under a microscope by a pathologist to look for cancer.
Prevention of Melanoma and Skin Cancer
The prevention of melanoma and skin cancer centers around the avoidance of and protection from UV rays from the sun. People should wear sunscreen when going outdoors. Patients should avoid the sun if they have a history of skin cancer.
Am I At Risk for Developing Melanoma and Skin Cancer?
Patients with a family history of melanoma or skin cancer in their family are at risk for developing melanoma themselves. Patients who spend large amounts of time outside are also at risk.
Treatment of Melanoma and Skin Cancer
The initial treatment is the surgical removal of a skin. Some patients will need a lymph node biopsy or regional lymph node dissection. Some patients may benefit from chemotherapy or other medical treatment.
To learn more about treatment procedures for this condition please visit the following: Procedures We Do
Melanoma and skin cancer is a serious and sensitive situation that needs to be fixed as soon as possible. Melanoma and skin cancer can have serious consequences which deserves the attention of a proficient general surgeon. Superior surgeons like Dr. Jenna Kazil spend years training and treating melanoma and skin cancer. Patients in need of a melanoma and skin cancer removal or a lymph node biopsy or dissection on Florida’s West Coast should locate a high-caliber general surgeon who has the surgical skills necessary to perform these serious surgical operations for the benefit of their patients. Dr. J. Kazil is a first-rate general surgeon who has developed an impressive track record of successful of treating melanoma and skin cancer cases. Dr. Kazil understands the important circumstances that drive the treatment with the accuracy and compassion that everyone expects from a five-star general surgeon. Jenna Kazil, MD, FACS, RPVI is a supreme surgical specialist working as a vascular and general surgeon seeing patients from South Sarasota to East Desoto and Hardee to North Hillsborough to West Manatee and Pinellas counties. Patients requiring melanoma and skin cancer removal or a lymph node biopsy or dissection should contact Dr. Kazil at the Florida Surgical Clinic located in Bradenton, FL today to schedule an appointment with a unique experienced doctor that possesses a unique blend of compassionate care and expert skills.
