Melanoma, a type of skin cancer, can be potentially life-threatening if not detected and treated in its early stages. Melanomas are more aggressive than other types of skin cancer and can spread to other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes and internal organs.

If melanoma is diagnosed at an early stage, when it is still confined to the skin and has not spread to other parts of the body, it is highly curable. Surgery to remove the melanoma is usually the main treatment and has a high success rate.

However, if melanoma has spread to other parts of the body, it can be difficult to treat and may be life-threatening. In advanced stages, the cancer can spread to the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, brain, and other organs, making it harder to treat and with a lower survival rate.

It’s important to detect melanoma early by self-examining your skin regularly, and seeing a dermatologist if you notice any changes in the size, shape, or color of moles or other skin growths. Early detection and treatment are key in preventing melanoma from becoming deadly.

contributors to our website:

Dr Shaun Segal skin cancer specialist and a medical doctor who has specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer with extensive training and experience in identifying and treating different types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Skin cancer specialists may also work closely with other medical specialists, such as oncologists and radiation therapists, to provide comprehensive care for patients with skin cancer. Author: Dr Shaun Segal