Skin

The most common symptoms of melanoma are:

• changes in size, shape or colour of an existing mole¹
• development of a mole with irregular edges or borders¹
• development of a mole that is more than one colour¹
• a mole that itches¹
• a change in pigmented skin¹
• a new mole that grows near an existing mole – this is called a satellite mole.¹

There are a number of conditions that may cause these symptoms, not just melanoma. If any of these symptoms are experienced, it is important that they are discussed with a doctor.

A risk factor is any factor that is associated with an increased chance of developing a particular health condition, such as melanoma. There are different types of risk factors, some of which can be modified and some which cannot.

It should be noted that having one or more risk factors does not mean a person will develop melanoma. Many people have at least one risk factor but will never develop melanoma, while others with melanoma may have had no known risk factors.

Even if a person with melanoma has a risk factor, it is usually hard to know how much that risk factor contributed to the development of their disease.

While the causes of melanoma are not fully understood, there are a number of factors associated with the risk of developing
the disease. These factors include:

• a history of melanoma or other skin cancer²
• having several large or many small moles (called naevae) on the skin (melanocytic naevi)²
• having a fair complexion, including light-coloured, blond or red, hair, light coloured eyes and/or fair skin that freckles easily^{1, 2}
• exposure to the sun and other sources of ultraviolet radiation such as sunbeds²
• a family history of melanoma.²

A number of tests will be performed to investigate symptoms of melanoma and confirm a diagnosis. Some of the more common tests include:

• examination of the skin to check moles, birthmarks and other skin pigmentations, which may include:
  • dermoscopy – viewing the skin through a hand-held magnifying device²
  • sequential digital imaging – involves taking a series of images of a mole over a period of time to detect changes²
• removing the mole or abnormal area of skin for examination under a microscope (biopsy or excision).²

Treatment and care of people with cancer is usually provided by a team of health professionals – called a multidisciplinary team.

Treatment for melanoma depends on the stage of the disease, the severity of symptoms and the person’s general health. Treatment usually involves surgery to remove the melanoma. Sometimes radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy may also be used.²

Research is ongoing to find new ways to diagnose and treat different types of cancer. Some people may be offered the option of participation in a clinical trial to test new ways of treating melanoma.

People often feel overwhelmed, scared, anxious and upset after a diagnosis of cancer. These are all normal feelings.

Having practical and emotional support during and after diagnosis and treatment for cancer is very important. Support may be available from family and friends, health professionals or special support services.

In addition, State and Territory Cancer Councils provide general information about cancer as well as information on local resources and relevant support groups. The Cancer Council Helpline can be accessed from anywhere in Australia by calling 13 11 20 for the cost of a local call.

More information about finding support can be found on the Cancer Australia website www.canceraustralia.gov.au or Melanoma Patients Australia www.melanomapatients.org.au

CanTeen is a national support organisation for 12 – 24 year olds who are living with cancer www.canteen.org.au