Melanoma: The Most Dangerous Type of Skin Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore

 Skin cancer is on the rise globally, and understanding its types, causes, and prevention is more important than ever. Among all the types, melanoma stands out as the most dangerous form of skin cancer, despite being less common than others like basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. At Episkin Hair and Skin Clinic, under the guidance of Dr. Sangeeth, MBBS, MD, DVL, one of the best skin specialists in Hyderabad, we aim to spread awareness and encourage early detection of this life-threatening disease.

What is Melanoma?

Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that starts in the melanocytes, the skin cells responsible for producing melanin – the pigment that gives your skin its color. These cells are found in the outermost layer of your skin, the epidermis. When the DNA inside these cells gets damaged – often due to excessive UV exposure from sunlight or tanning beds – they can begin to grow abnormally and uncontrollably, forming cancerous tumors.

Although it accounts for only a small percentage of all skin cancer cases, melanoma causes the majority of skin cancer-related deaths. That’s why it’s known as the deadliest skin cancer.

Why Melanoma is So Dangerous

The biggest threat posed by melanoma lies in its ability to spread – or metastasize – rapidly to other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, and brain. When detected early, the five-year survival rate for localized melanoma is around 99%. However, once it spreads:

• Stage III melanoma, where it reaches the lymph nodes, has a survival rate of approximately 62%.
  
  

• Stage IV melanoma, which affects other organs, has a five-year survival rate of only 18%.
  
  

Early detection is the key to preventing this deadly disease from progressing into its more advanced and life-threatening stages.

Warning Signs of Melanoma: Follow the ABCDE Rule

The best way to catch melanoma early is to know what to look for. Dermatologists recommend the ABCDE rule:

• A for Asymmetry – One half of the mole doesn't match the other.
  
  

• B for Border – Edges are irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined.
  
  

• C for Color – Multiple colors like brown, black, red, or white.
  
  

• D for Diameter – Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
  
  

• E for Evolving – Any change in size, shape, color, or symptoms like itching or bleeding.
  
  

If you notice any of these signs, book an appointment with your dermatologist in Hyderabad immediately.

Risk Factors for Melanoma

Certain factors can increase your risk of developing melanoma:

• Excessive exposure to UV rays (sun or tanning beds)
  
  

• Fair skin, freckles, or light-colored eyes
  
  

• Family or personal history of skin cancer
  
  

• Weakened immune system
  
  

• Presence of multiple or unusual moles
  
  

Prevention Tips to Lower Your Risk

Preventing melanoma starts with protecting your skin from UV damage. Here’s what you can do:

• Always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
  
  

• Avoid sun exposure during peak hours (10 AM – 4 PM)
  
  

• Wear protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses
  
  

• Avoid tanning beds completely
  
  

• Perform monthly skin self-exams
  
  

• Schedule annual skin checks with a board-certified dermatologist
  
  

Diagnosis and Treatment of Melanoma

When you visit Episkin Hair and Skin Clinic, Dr. Sangeeth, an expert skin doctor in Hyderabad, will begin with a detailed skin examination. If any suspicious lesions are found, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

For early-stage melanoma, Mohs micrographic surgery is often recommended. This advanced, tissue-sparing technique removes cancerous cells while preserving healthy skin and offers high cure rates.

In more advanced cases, treatment may include:

• Surgical excision of the tumor
  
  

• Immunotherapy to boost the body’s natural defenses
  
  

• Targeted therapy to attack specific cancer cells
  
  

• Chemotherapy or radiation therapy for widespread disease
  
  

Thanks to medical advancements, these treatments are becoming more effective, but early detection remains the most powerful tool.

Why Choose Episkin Hair and Skin Clinic?

At Episkin, we’re committed to offering the highest standards of skin care and cancer screening services. Whether you need a routine skin check or expert treatment, Dr. Sangeeth, MBBS, MD, DVL, is here to provide compassionate, personalized care using the latest diagnostic and treatment methods.

With clinics conveniently located in Boduppal and Malkajgiri, we ensure that expert skin care is never far from your reach.

Melanoma awareness and regular screening could save your life or that of someone you love. Don’t ignore changes in your skin – be proactive, get examined, and stay protected.

📍 Boduppal, Hyderabad – 📞 7032111694
📍 Malkajgiri, Secunderabad – 📞 98663 25005
🌐 Visit: www.episkin.in

Book an appointment with Dr. Sangeeth today and take the first step toward healthier skin.