Melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, develops in the melanocytes (cells producing melanin). Melanoma is the third most common cancer in Australia for both genders, following colorectal and breast/prostate cancer. Melanomas are predominantly found in sun exposed skin, however rare cases can occur in the mouth, eyes, and genital area.
Melanoma is caused by a combination of factors, such as genetic and environmental factors. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunrays and from tanning lamps is believed to be the leading cause of melanoma. The risk for melanoma is higher in people with the following conditions:
Most melanomas can be cured if detected at an early stage. At Kew Dermatology, our dermatologists are committed towards the early detection of melanoma, keeping abreast of the latest clinical trials and research relating to melanoma.
We evaluate patients with no previous history of melanoma to perform preventative checks as well as manage patients who have a history of melanoma in the family, who have had melanomas removed or who have been diagnosed by their GP to have a lesion of concern.
Melanoma at an early stage generally requires surgical removal, which we usually perform in our well-equipped facility on site. In cases of advanced melanoma, we coordinate your surgery with the Victorian Melanoma Service or a plastic surgeon where necessary. The treatment options for advanced stages may include surgery to remove affected lymph nodes, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
The most important warning signs to distinguish melanomas are new lesions or any
changes in the colour, size or shape of spots (ABCDE).
