Understanding Acral Melanoma: Insights from an Oncologist

Acral melanoma is a rare but aggressive form of skin cancer that often goes unnoticed until it has reached an advanced stage. This type of melanoma occurs on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, or under the nails, and it often presents as a brown or black streak or spot that may resemble a bruise.

Causes and Risk Factors

According to Dr. John Martinez, an oncologist and melanoma specialist, a history of sun exposure is not a significant risk factor for acral melanoma, as it is for other types of skin cancer. Instead, this form of melanoma is thought to be caused by genetic mutations that occur spontaneously or as a result of exposure to certain chemicals or viruses. Individuals with darker skin tones and those over the age of 50 are more likely to develop this type of melanoma, as are individuals with a family history of the disease.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Because acral melanoma is often overlooked or misdiagnosed, early detection is crucial. Dr. Martinez stresses the importance of regular self-examinations and dermatologist screenings to catch any suspicious spots or spots that do not heal after several days. Biopsies can confirm a diagnosis of acral melanoma, and imaging tests may be ordered to determine the extent of the cancer.

Treatment typically involves surgery to remove the affected tissue, along with radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy to destroy any remaining cancer cells. Depending on the stage of the cancer, targeted therapies may also be used to block the growth of cancer cells. Dr. Martinez emphasizes that a multidisciplinary approach is essential to effectively treat acral melanoma, with specialists ranging from oncologists to dermatologists to surgical oncologists.

Prevention and Early Detection

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent acral melanoma, there are steps that individuals can take to reduce their risk. Dr. Martinez recommends avoiding exposure to chemicals and viruses that are known to cause genetic mutations, as well as protecting the skin from trauma and friction, which can increase the likelihood of developing this type of melanoma. Additionally, regular self-examinations and screenings can help catch any suspicious spots early, improving the chances of successful treatment.

#AcralMelanomaAwareness #SkinCancerPrevention #EarlyDetectionSavesLives

Summary: Acral melanoma is a rare but aggressive form of skin cancer that occurs on the palms, soles, and under the nails. It is caused by genetic mutations and is most common in individuals over 50, those with darker skin tones, and those with a family history of the disease. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment, which may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy, as well as targeted therapies in some cases. While there is no guaranteed way to prevent acral melanoma, regular self-examinations and screenings can catch suspicious spots early, improving the chances of successful treatment. #HEALTH