When melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, begin to grow out of control it causes a type of skin cancer called melanoma to develop.
The first indication that melanoma has developed is often when a mole changes in colour or when a new pigmented lesion develops. You may notice a darkening colour, or in some cases loss of pigmentation.
Melanoma is most commonly caused by ultraviolet (UV) light, which comes from the sun as well as being used in sunbeds. Whilst the risk increases with age, younger people can also get melanoma too.
Other factors to consider:
If you suspect you have melanoma, early treatment is particularly important as this aims to prevent the cells from growing deeper into the layers of skin and causing severe health issues. This will involve removing it, often along with a narrow margin of normal looking skin and sending it to the pathologist so that the official diagnosis can be determined.
A second procedure will only be required if the diagnosis does come back to confirm it is in fact melanoma, this will involve removing further normal skin - which is done to reduce the risk of the melanoma coming back.
When faced with the possibility of having melanoma, ensuring you’re in safe hands and feeling supported throughout the process is extremely important. Mr Abood not only founded SKINSCAR Clinic but leads on all clinical treatments.
As well as keeping himself at the forefront of innovations in surgical techniques, Mr Abood dedicated extensive research time to improving methods of skin cancer treatment - winning an award for his work. So, you can guarantee your medical care will be in the best of hands.
Enquire at one of our two Cambridgeshire locations today to find out more.