Melanoma is the most aggressive and potentially life-threatening type of skin cancer. It originates in melanocytes—the pigment-producing cells responsible for skin color. While melanoma represents a smaller portion of total skin cancer diagnoses, it causes the majority of skin cancer-related deaths due to its ability to spread rapidly if left untreated.
At Metropolis Dermatology in Pasadena, our board-certified dermatologists specialize in the early diagnosis and personalized treatment of melanoma. With advanced technology and deep expertise, we provide compassionate, comprehensive care when it matters most.
What Is Melanoma?
Melanoma is a malignant skin cancer that arises from melanocytes. It most commonly appears on sun-exposed areas like the face, arms, back, and legs, but it can also develop on areas with minimal sun exposure—such as the scalp, soles of the feet, or under the nails.
In its early stages, melanoma may resemble a mole or dark spot. That’s why recognizing unusual changes in your skin is critical. Without timely treatment, melanoma can invade deeper layers of skin and spread to lymph nodes and other organs.
What Causes Melanoma?
The leading cause of melanoma is cumulative UV damage, typically from prolonged sun exposure or tanning bed use. Ultraviolet radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations and uncontrolled growth.
Risk factors that increase your likelihood of developing melanoma include:
- Fair skin, light eyes, and a history of sunburns
- Frequent sun exposure, particularly without protection
- Indoor tanning or use of tanning beds
- A family history of melanoma or atypical moles
- Multiple or irregular moles on the body
- Weakened immune system from medications or medical conditions
Even people with darker skin tones can develop melanoma, particularly on the palms, soles, or under the nails.
What Does Melanoma Look Like?
To identify suspicious spots, follow the ABCDE rule of melanoma detection:
- Asymmetry – One half of the mole doesn’t match the other
- Border – Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges
- Color – Uneven shades of black, brown, red, or even blue or white
- Diameter – Larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
- Evolving – Changing in size, shape, or color over time
Other red flags may include new lesions, itching or bleeding moles, or spots that don’t heal.
Melanoma Treatment Options
At Metropolis Dermatology, we offer comprehensive melanoma care tailored to your individual diagnosis and overall health.
Common treatments include:
- Surgical excision – The most common and effective approach for early-stage melanoma. We remove the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy skin.
- Lymph node biopsy – Performed if there is concern the cancer has spread beyond the initial lesion.
- Radiation therapy – May be used in more advanced cases or when surgery isn’t feasible.
- Targeted therapy or immunotherapy – For advanced or metastatic melanoma, we may recommend systemic treatments that attack cancer cells at a molecular level.
The key to effective melanoma care is early intervention. When caught early, melanoma is highly treatable and often curable with surgery alone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Melanoma
Is sun exposure the only cause of melanoma?
While UV radiation is the primary cause, melanoma can also occur in areas not commonly exposed to the sun, including mucous membranes, the scalp, or beneath the nails.
Can melanoma be completely cured?
Yes—when caught early, melanoma is highly curable through surgical removal. However, once it has spread, it becomes more complex to treat.
How can I lower my risk of melanoma?
Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, avoid tanning beds, wear protective clothing outdoors, and perform monthly self-skin exams.
How often should I be screened for melanoma?
Annual full-body skin exams with a dermatologist are recommended, especially if you have risk factors like fair skin, a history of sunburns, or multiple moles.
What happens after melanoma is removed?
Ongoing monitoring is essential. Regular check-ups help detect any recurrence or new lesions early, when they’re easiest to treat.
Hear from
Real Patients
Prioritize Your Skin Health—Schedule Your Melanoma Evaluation Today
Early detection can be lifesaving. If you’ve noticed a suspicious mole or change in your skin, don’t delay. At Metropolis Dermatology in Pasadena, CA, our expert providers are here to guide you through every step of melanoma diagnosis and treatment. Book your consultation today and take the next step in protecting your health and your future.