Skin Cancer - Melanoma

Melanoma is a life-threatening form of skin cancer. This cancer starts in the color-producing (pigment-producing) cells of the skin. Melanoma may develop from a previously existing mole (nevus) or may occur as a new lesion. Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to complete cure and survival, while advanced forms are likely to have a poor outcome (prognosis). Advanced melanoma can spread (metastasize) to the lymph nodes and other areas in the body, usually the lungs, liver, and brain.

The majority of people acknowledge and sympathize with Elizabeth Edwards, wife of the presidential candidate, John Edwards. Hers is the story of successful recovery from the primary breast cancer, only to wake up a few years later to find out the cancer had metastasized to her bone and to her liver. We have additionally learned that although the metastasized cancer can be treated, there no longer is any hope of cure.

The Mayo Clinic has prepared a series of slides showing a variety of skin conditions resulting from over-exposure to sunlight. The slides include examples of:

• Uneven pigmentation
• Solar lentigines

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. The American Cancer Society estimates that, in 2005, 59,600 new cases of melanoma - the most dangerous of skin cancers - will be diagnosed, and 7,800 people will die from it.