The problem with malignant melanoma is that if it grows for too long on the skin it can spread, or metastasize, and travel elsewhere in your body and grow as a tumor. It is literally the third cause of death behind car accidents and gun shots for ages 20 to 40 years old.
When in doubt, show any unusual spots on your skin to your doctor or see a dermatologist. In fact, telemedicine has made connections with the dermatologist easy! If you don’t have time for a traditional doctor’s visit try our online service, InTeleDerm.com. We can look at a good picture of any suspicious lesion and tell you if you should be seen in person for a possible biopsy. When melanoma is detected and treated in its early stages, the chances for long-term, disease-free survival are excellent.
