How Dermatologists Diagnose and Treat Melanoma

Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that develops in the cells responsible for producing pigment. While it accounts for a smaller percentage of skin cancer cases, it can spread quickly if not caught early. At Atlanta Skin and Aesthetics, serving Atlanta, Sandy Springs, and Brookhaven, board-certified dermatologists provide expert care in both the diagnosis and treatment of melanoma.

Recognizing the Signs of Melanoma

Early detection is key when it comes to melanoma. The condition often begins as a mole or pigmented spot that changes over time. Patients are encouraged to follow the ABCDE rule when examining their skin:

• Asymmetry – One half doesn’t match the other
• Border – Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges
• Color – Varies in shade or includes multiple tones
• Diameter – Larger than a pencil eraser (6mm)
• Evolving – Changes in shape, size, or color over time

Any suspicious lesion or mole should be evaluated by a dermatologist without delay.

How Melanoma Is Diagnosed

At Atlanta Skin and Aesthetics, a thorough skin evaluation is the first step. If a mole or growth appears concerning, a biopsy is typically performed. This involves removing a small sample of the lesion and sending it to a lab for further analysis. The results determine whether melanoma is present and help define the stage of the cancer, which influences treatment options.

Personalized Treatment Options

Treatment plans for melanoma vary depending on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Common approaches include:

Surgical Removal

The most common and effective treatment for early-stage melanoma is excision. The lesion and a margin of surrounding healthy tissue are removed to ensure complete elimination of cancerous cells.

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

For cases where there is a risk of spread, a sentinel lymph node biopsy may be performed to determine if the cancer has reached nearby lymph nodes.

Advanced Therapies

In more complex or later-stage cases, patients may require:

• Immunotherapy to boost the body’s natural defenses
• Targeted therapy to attack specific cancer cells
• Radiation or chemotherapy, depending on the progression

Your Skin Health Matters

Regular skin checks and professional evaluations are essential to catching melanoma early. The dermatology team at Atlanta Skin and Aesthetics offers comprehensive screenings and advanced treatment options tailored to each individual’s needs.

If you’ve noticed changes in a mole or have concerns about your skin, don’t wait. Call (404) 252-4110 to schedule an appointment with an experienced provider at Atlanta Skin and Aesthetics.