Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that originates in the melanocytes, or pigment-producing cells. Although usually limited to the skin, melanoma has the potential to spread to the lymph nodes and other parts of the body. Melanoma is highly curable if caught early, making timely detection and treatment crucial.
Children and young adults diagnosed with melanoma are seen in the Multidisciplinary Melanoma Clinic, one of the leading melanoma programs in the world. Located in the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, this clinic offers an all-inclusive and thorough approach to the treatment of melanoma, for patients of all ages.
At the University of Michigan Health System, there is hope, innovation and support available for those with advanced melanoma. Our multidisciplinary melanoma team includes dermatology surgeons, pediatric surgeons, pediatric oncologists, pediatric radiation oncologists, and other medical experts who provide extraordinary care for our pediatric patients with melanoma.
What are the signs and symptoms of melanoma
Skin cancers, including melanoma often can be found early with skin exams. Both regular exams by your doctor and checking your own skin frequently can help find cancers early.
If you have any of the following symptoms, tell your doctor.
- any change on the skin, especially in the size or color of a mole or other darkly pigmented growth or spot, or a new growth
- scaliness, oozing, bleeding, or change in the appearance of a bump or nodule
- the spread of color beyond its border such as dark coloring that goes outside the edge of a mole or mark
- a change in sensation, itchiness, tenderness, or pain
Please see also the U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center's Skin Cancer Screening Card: Be Smart About Your Skin, Know your ABCD's.
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For more information or to make an appointment, call 734-936-9814.