There are four main types of melanoma which include:
- Superficial spreading melanoma – more commonly found on the arms, legs, chest and back
- Nodular melanoma – more commonly found on the chest, back, head or neck
- Lentigo maligna melanoma – often found on the face and neck
- Acral lentiginous melanoma – usually found on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, or under fingernails or toenails
The following are common diagnostic procedures in helping to diagnose melanoma:
- Biopsy of an affected area of skin
- An ultrasound guided biopsy if a sample of tissue is required that is not skin
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy (that is a biopsy of the lymph node nearest to where abnormal tissue has been taken)
- CT scan
The treatment for melanoma includes:
- Surgery
- Radiotherapy
- Drug therapy
- Symptom management
- Or a combination of treatments
Symptoms to look out for include renewed symptoms or new, growing patches on the skin.
The melanoma MDT aims to help and support all patients through and beyond treatment and to help manage any symptoms that cause problems.
The melanoma nurse specialist team is the best way to seek advice and can be contacted on 0113 2067708.