Melanoma

Over 9,500* Australians are diagnosed each year with a malignant melanoma that requires removal. Up to 1,100* individuals die from this condition. Melanoma is a cancer of the pigment cells of the skin, known as melanocytes. Non cancerous moles are present on all individuals, but for some unknown reason, these can turn cancerous.

The “ABCD” rule is a good indication as to whether a mole should be examined further.

  • Asymmetrical lesions
  • Border irregularity
  • Colour variation
  • Diameter greater than the size of a pencil eraser

If the mole is assessed as being cancerous, it will be removed by surgery. If it has been determined that the cancer has spread to the lymph node following surgery and pathology analysis, adjuvant treatment is given. This involves agents such as interferons, which stimulate the immune system and help eradicate the cancer. If the cancer has spread to a number of other organs beyond the lymph nodes, more aggressive chemotherapy is adopted to control the growth and spread of the cancer.

* Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Cancer in Australia, 2003. (accessed 31 Jan 2008)

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