Eight out of ten melanomas are curable if detected early

Eight out of ten melanomas are curable if detected earlyINFORMATION

According to the Spanish Association Against Cancer, skin cancer already accounts for 8% of all diagnosed tumors, and this figure is growing, with registrations increasing by 40% in the last 4 years.

View skin cancer the most common is basal cell carcinoma (CDB). This type of cancer accounts for approximately 80% of all non-melanoma skin cancers. It develops in basal cells, that is, the cells of the deepest layer of the epidermis. It usually appears as a small, shiny bump on the skin, often on sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck and arms. It may also appear as a non-healing sore, red spot or scar. However, we can detect up to more than 100 types of skin cancer. “You could say that basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma are the most common, in that order,” he explains. That Dr. Lisset SardaChapter Dermatological service Quirónsalud Alicante.

Melanoma occurs in melanocytes, the cells that produce the pigment melanin, which is responsible for skin color. Although it is less common than other types of skin cancer, it is much more dangerous due to its ability to spread to other parts of the body, i.e. metastasize, although, as Dr. Sarda points out, “more than 80% of cases, this type of cancer is curable if treated early.” discover.”

Symptoms of melanoma, the most dangerous skin tumor

As part of the main melanoma symptoms We detect changes in the size, shape or color of the mole, the appearance of a new growth on the skin, a feeling of itching, pain or bleeding from the mole. “These symptoms should alert us and bring them to the attention of a specialist as soon as possible,” advises Dr. Sarda.

Risk factors for skin cancer

In relation to behavior that increase the likelihood of developing melanoma, The head of the dermatology service at Quirónsalud Alicante notes that sunburn in childhood and adolescence is most associated with melanoma. In addition, people using UV tanning booths They have a 20 times higher risk of developing this type of cancer throughout their lifetime. “We know that the lighter the color of patients’ skin, hair and eyes, the less ability they have to protect themselves from ultraviolet radiation and are more likely to develop melanoma, with red-haired people at greatest risk. On the other hand, patients who already have melanoma are more sensitive to the suffering of a second person, as well as direct relatives of such patients, who must maintain strict control,” emphasizes Dr. Sarda.

To detect it, Quirónsalud experts advise follow ABCDE rulesan acronym that refers to the asymmetry of this type of lesion, irregular edges, uneven color and a diameter greater than six millimeters, although the most important is E, its evolution: any change in the mole should be assessed by a dermatologist.

Early diagnosis of skin cancer in Alicante and Torrevieja thanks to teledermatology

The main benefit they offer Teledermatology services at the Quironsalud Torrevieja and Quironsalud Alicante hospitalsIt is the short period of time that passes between consultation and diagnosis by a specialist that allows you to contact the patient as quickly as possible in case of suspected malignancy and apply the necessary treatment, guaranteeing a higher cure rate.

The patient is examined at the first initial consultation by medical personnel trained in dermatoscopy techniques, which includes a report of the skin lesions and their development, as well as important data such as medical history, risk factors, etc. After this consultation, the specialist uses dermoscopic techniques will take pictures that will be sent to a dermatologist, who will make a diagnosis in less than forty-eight hours.

In case of doubt or suspicion of a malignant neoplasm, the patient will be contacted as a priority and offered a personal appointment in less than two days, at which a specialist will explain his case and the procedure.

Quironsalud in the Valencian Community and Region of Murcia

Quironsalud has many existing centers in the Valencian Community and the Region of Murcia, forming a leading group that is at the forefront of medicine, where people are the epicenter.

Quirónsalud occupies a leading position in the field of private healthcare in the Valencian Community and Murcia in terms of technological equipment, as well as comfort and benefits for both patients and professionals who provide their services in its centers.