MELANOMA Meaning and
Definition
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Melanoma is a term commonly used in the medical field to refer to a type of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes, which are cells responsible for producing the pigment melanin that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes. It is considered the most dangerous form of skin cancer due to its ability to spread quickly to other parts of the body, invading nearby tissues and organs, and potentially causing life-threatening complications.
Typically, melanoma arises from pre-existing moles or appears as a new pigmented lesion on the skin. It can occur anywhere on the body, including areas that are not exposed to sunlight. While the primary cause of melanoma is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds, other factors such as family history, genetic mutations, fair skin, and a weakened immune system can also increase the risk of developing the disease.
Early detection of melanoma is crucial for successful treatment and improved prognosis. Common signs to watch for include changes in the size, shape, or color of moles or the emergence of new pigmented lesions. An irregular or asymmetrical shape, varied shades of color, larger diameter, and evolving features are often indicators of melanoma. If suspected, a dermatologist may perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment options for melanoma depend on the stage and severity of the disease, but can include surgical removal, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these approaches. Regular skin examinations, proper use of sun protection measures (such as sunscreen and protective clothing), and avoiding excessive sun exposure are recommended to reduce the risk of developing melanoma.
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A pigmented mole, chromatophoroma.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Etymology of MELANOMA
The word "melanoma" comes from the combination of two Greek words: "melas" meaning "black" and "oma" meaning "tumor". Melas is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *mel-, which also gave rise to words like "melanin" (the pigment responsible for dark skin, hair, and eyes) and "melancholy" (meaning black bile in ancient Greek medicine, associated with sadness or depression). Therefore, "melanoma" literally means "black tumor", referring to the dark coloration often exhibited by this type of skin cancer.
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