Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops in melanocytes, the cells responsible for the pigment that colours skin, hair, and eyes [1]. Over the years, the number of melanoma cases have been increasing, accounting for 1-2% of all skin cancers [2, 3]. Even though this number is not high, melanoma causes most skin cancer-related deaths.
There are several treatment options that depend on the cancer’s stage, its location, and the individual’s overall health [4, 6] - most commonly: surgical procedures, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. However, there are various side effects associated [7]:
Surgical procedures; pain, swelling, and scarring.
Immunotherapy; fatigue, skin rash, and gastrointestinal issues.
Radiation therapy: skin changes and localized discomfort.
Chemotherapy; hair loss, nausea, and fatigue.
New clinical trials are underway to find innovative approaches to treatments, improve outcomes, and reduce side effects [8]. One of the most promising trials has been the use of a personalized cancer mRNA vaccine combined with immunotherapy to treat high-risk melanoma [9]. More information about how this type of mRNA vaccine works in this post.
Excessive exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds, history of sunburns, family history of melanoma, weakened immune system, other genetic factors, and having fair skin are all factors that increase its risk [1, 4]. With summer approaching, it is imperative to take care of your skin. Do regular self-examinations on your skin, use and reapply sunscreen regularly, wear protective clothing, and try to stay under shade.
If any of these ABCDE signs are present during a self-examination, consult a healthcare professional promptly [5]:
A - Asymmetry: Most melanoma lesions are often asymmetrical, where one-half of the mole/spot does not match the other half in terms of shape and size.
B - Border irregularity: The borders of a melanoma may appear jagged, blurred, or notched, unlike the smooth and well-defined borders of benign moles.
C - Colour variation: Melanomas may exhibit a variety of colours or shades within the same lesion, whereas benign moles typically have a uniform colour.
D - Diameter: While not always indicative of melanoma, larger moles or skin lesions have a higher risk of being malignant. A diameter greater than 6 mm is worth getting checked by a healthcare professional.
E - Evolving: Pay attention to any changes in size, shape, colour, or elevation over time.
In conclusion, it is important to prioritize skin health, especially during summer time. Use the ABCDE rule during self-examination to differentiate benign and malignant moles. While current treatments may have side effects, there are ongoing clinical trials on an mRNA melanoma vaccine, which has been very promising, and it could open a path for other cancer treatments. Stay tuned for the next post about how this vaccine works and the outcomes of these clinical trials so far!
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Written by: Maria
Edited by: Natasha
BioDecoded is a volunteer group committed to sharing accurate scientific information. We cannot offer any specific health advice. If you have any doubts about your personal health, please speak with your healthcare professional or family physician. Your doctor can revise your medical history and advise you on the best path to follow. If you have any questions about this topic or would like to learn more, please comment below, or send us your questions.
References:
Melanoma - Symptoms and causes (2023). Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/melanoma/symptoms-causes/syc-20374884 (Accessed: 6 June 2023).
Melanoma of the Skin - Cancer Stat Facts (2023). National Cancer Institute. Available at: https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/melan.html (Accessed: 6 June 2023).
Saginala, K. et al. (2021) "Epidemiology of Melanoma", Medical Sciences, 9(4), 63. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8544364/
Melanoma skin cancer (2017). National Health Service UK. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/melanoma-skin-cancer/ (Accessed: 6 June 2023).
Melanoma Warning Signs and Images (2023). Skin Cancer. Available at: https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/melanoma/melanoma-warning-signs-and-images/ (Accessed: 6 June 2023).
Treatment of Melanoma by Stage (2023). Cancer.org. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/melanoma-skin-cancer/treating/by-stage.html (Accessed: 6 June 2023).
Your Treatment Options for Melanoma (2023). Web MD. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/melanoma-skin-cancer/melanoma-treatment-options (Accessed: 6 June 2023).
Treatment Clinical Trials for Melanoma (2023). National Cancer Institute. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/clinical-trials/disease/melanoma/treatment (Accessed: 6 June 2023).
An Efficacy Study of Adjuvant Treatment With the Personalized Cancer Vaccine mRNA-4157 and Pembrolizumab in Participants With High-Risk Melanoma (2023). National Cancer Institute. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/clinical-trials/search/v?id=NCI-2019-04957&r=1 (Accessed: 6 June 2023).
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