Melanoma Resources
This information is explained in much more detail on our sister
website: AboutMelanoma.com.
Melanoma
You have just been diagnosed with melanoma or have learned that
your physician may suspect it and further testing is needed. You
are probably on an emotional roller coaster — scared, mad,
confused, overwhelmed.
First and foremost, there is hope. The vast majority of patients
diagnosed with melanoma are cured by a simple surgical procedure.
Others with more advanced melanoma often will live long, meaningful
lives even with their condition. However,the key to survival is
early diagnosis and treatment.
What is Melanoma?
The skin is made up of two main layers: the outer epidermis and
the inner dermis. The epidermis, which is the outer layer of the
skin, is made up mostly of flat, scaly cells called squamous cells.
Under the squamous cells lay round cells called basal cells. The
deepest part of the epidermis also contains melanocytes, the cells
that produce the pigment melanin that colors skin, hair and eyes.
Melanoma originates in melanocytes. Those cells develop into melanomas
when too much sun exposure is applied to them. It can occur on any
skin surface. In men, melanoma often is found on the area between
the shoulders and the hips, often called the trunk of the body,
or the head and neck.
In women, it often develops on the lower legs.