A BRIEF OVERVIEW ON MELANOMA
MELANOMA is a cancer of the pigment-producing cells in the skin, known as melanocytes. Cancer is a condition in which one type of cell grows without limit in a disorganized fashion, disrupting and replacing normal tissues and their functions, much like weeds overgrowing a garden. The Melanoma cells multiply rapidly and produce a tumor. These tumors originate in the pigment-producing melanocytes in the basal layer of the epidermis.
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Melanoma is the fifth most common cancer in men and the seventh most common cancer in women seen these days. The annual cost of involved in melanoma treatment in the United States exceeds $3 billion, and about 9000 deaths each year are attributed to this form of cancer.
Risk factors for melanoma are both genetic and environmental. About 10% of melanoma patients have a first- or second-degree relative with the disease. Genetic cases of melanoma have been linked to 2 identifiable genes.
Other factors that increase the risk of melanoma includes-
· Blond, light brown, or red hair.
· Blue colored eyes & high freckle density is also associated with Melanoma.
· Increased numbers of nevi (birthmarks/moles) present also indicate a proportional increase in risk for melanoma.
· Family history (genetics).
Skin cell damage from ultraviolet exposure is the recognized cause of more than 90% of melanoma cases. Indoor tanning is a significant adaptable risk factor. Sun exposure should be minimized with the use of sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher and by seeking shade and wearing sunglasses, protective clothing, and hats. The skin should be examined carefully from head to toe. Additionally, scheduling outdoor activities early or later in the day is recommended.
Patients should be encouraged to report any observed changes in their skin, especially new growth, changes in old growth, or skin that will not heal. Dermascopy a handheld light magnifier, can aid diagnosis based on sore appearance. An early diagnosis with excisional biopsy can improve prognosis and survival.
An acronym called the A-B-C-D-E’s of melanoma can assist in assessing an area of concern on the skin.
- · A is for asymmetrical, If you draw a line through the middle, the two sides will match, making it symmetrical. If you draw a line through the mole on the right, the two halves will not match, meaning it is asymmetrical, its signifies symptom of melanoma.
- · B is Border, the borders of an early melanoma are uneven. The edges tend to be scalloped or notched.
- · C is for color, A number of different shades of brown, tan or black appear. Melanoma sometimes can also become red, white or blue.
- · D is Diameter, Melanomas usually are larger in diameter;
- · E is for evolving, meaning the patient has seen changes in the past 1 to 2 months.
The following factors help to identify those at risk for MELANOMA : -
- Fair skin.
- A history of sunburns.
- More than 50 moles.
- Atypical moles.
- A close relative who has had MELANOMA.
DIAGNOSIS OF MELANOMA (Skin Cancer)
A skin biopsy is usually necessary to confirm a MELANOMA diagnosis. In this procedure, the mole is removed and checked under a microscope. A skin biopsy often requires a local aesthetics.
A complete physical and ophthalmological (eye) examination should be done. Diagnostic imaging techniques such as x-ray, computed tomography (CAT scan), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET scan) and radio-isotopic bone or organ scan may be included.
A complete physical and ophthalmological (eye) examination should be done. Diagnostic imaging techniques such as x-ray, computed tomography (CAT scan), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET scan) and radio-isotopic bone or organ scan may be included.
Pharmacy professionals have actively participated in the development of newer drug delivery systems in the R&D department for the treatment of melanoma.
By:
Anup K. Chakraborty
Associate Professor (Department of Medicinal Chemistry)
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