Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer of the skin. Each year more than 57,000 poeple learn they have melanoma. In the United States, the percentage of people who develop melanoma has doubled in the past 30 years.
It ebgins in the cells in the skin called melanocytes. To understand melanoma, it is helpful to know about the skin and about melanocytes - what they do, how they grow, and what happens when they become cancerous.
The skin is the body's largest organ. It protects against heat, light, injury, and infection. It also produces Vitamin D.
Melanoma occurs when the melanocytes (pigment cells) become malignant. Most pigment cells are in the skin; when melanoma starts in the skin, the disease is called cutaneous melanoma. Melanoma may also occur in the eye.
Sometimes clusters of melanocytes and surrounding tissue form growths called moles. Moles are common. Most people have between 10 to 40 moles. Moles may be pink, tan, brown, or a color that is very close to a normal skin tone.
Dr. Beverly Held specializes in screening and diagnosing skin conditions for over 40 years. If you suspect you have growths occuring don't wait untilit's too late. Call us to make an appointment and have it checked out. Dr. Beverly Held will administer treatment and explain every step of the way. We're committed to treating you with care.