Fairview Derm Logo Fairview Dermatology

Melanoma

At Fairview Dermatology, we are passionate about early detection of and treatment for melanoma.

Dr. Hudson reassuring a patient about her condition

Understanding Melanoma

Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that develops in melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment. While it's less common than other skin cancers, its potential to spread rapidly makes early detection crucial.

At Fairview Dermatology, our comprehensive skin examinations are designed to identify melanomas at their earliest stages. When caught early, melanoma has an excellent prognosis with proper treatment. It's important to be aware that melanoma can arise as a new spot or develop within an existing mole, emphasizing the need for regular self-examinations and professional skin checks.

Melanoma on skin

Discover Why Our Patients Choose Us

TRUSTED BY OVER

10,000

PATIENTS

GRATEFUL TO HAVE OVER

600

5 STAR REVIEWS

PRIVILEGED TO SEE PATIENTS FROM

Fairview

AND SURROUNDING AREAS INCLUDING ALLEN, MCKINNEY, LUCAS, PLANO, & FRISCO

Recognizing Melanoma

Identifying potential melanomas involves being alert to changes in your skin. The ABCDE warning signs can help detect melanoma early and save lives.

Other indicators may include lesions that itch, bleed, or don't heal. Remember, early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes, making regular skin checks a crucial part of your health routine.

Image about how to recognize melanoma

Credit - The American Academy of Dermatology. For more information visit aad.org

Melanoma Risk Factors

  • Genetic Predisposition: Family history of melanoma, especially in first-degree relatives
  • Skin Characteristics: Fair skin, light-colored eyes, red or blonde hair, tendency to sunburn easily
  • Sun Exposure Patterns: History of severe sunburns, especially in childhood or adolescence, and cumulative sun damage over time
  • Artificial UV Exposure: History of tanning bed use, particularly before age 35
  • Mole Patterns: Presence of numerous moles (>50) or atypical moles (>5)
  • Previous Skin Cancers: Personal history of melanoma or non-melanoma skin cancers
  • Immune Status: Weakened immune system due to disease or medications
Melanoma on a back

Melanoma Prevention Strategies

Preventing melanoma involves a combination of sun protection and regular skin monitoring. While we encourage enjoying outdoor activities, it's crucial to practice sun safety. This includes using broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, wearing protective clothing, seeking shade during peak sun hours, and avoiding tanning beds.

We recommend regular professional skin examinations for individuals with risk factors such as a history of significant sun exposure, tanning bed use, personal or family history of melanoma, or numerous or atypical moles. These screenings complement your regular self-examinations at home.

If you notice any concerning changes in your skin or have risk factors for melanoma, don't hesitate to contact Fairview Dermatology for an appointment. Dr. Hudson is committed to providing thorough skin cancer screenings and expert care.

Melanoma Treatment Approaches

When melanoma is suspected, our approach begins with a thorough evaluation and biopsy. If melanoma is confirmed, we develop a personalized treatment plan based on the cancer's characteristics and stage. Our primary treatment options include:

  • Wide Local Excision: This is the standard treatment for most melanomas. It involves surgically removing the tumor along with a margin of healthy skin to ensure complete removal of cancer cells. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and the excised tissue is sent for pathological examination to confirm clear margins.
  • Mohs Micrographic Surgery: This highly specialized technique is often used for skin cancers in sensitive areas like the face, or for recurrent or aggressive tumors. Mohs surgery allows for the precise removal of cancerous tissue while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible. It offers the highest cure rate for many types of skin cancer. Although Mohs surgery is not performed at Fairview Dermatology, Dr. Hudson collaborates closely with external Mohs surgeons to ensure coordinated and seamless skin cancer treatment.

For melanomas that have penetrated deeper into the skin, additional procedures may be necessary. If the melanoma has invaded to a depth of 0.8mm or greater, we may recommend a sentinel lymph node biopsy to check for potential spread. This procedure is typically performed in conjunction with a surgical oncologist.

In cases of advanced melanoma, we collaborate with oncologists to provide comprehensive care, which may include targeted therapies, immunotherapy, or other systemic treatments. Our goal is to ensure you receive the most effective and appropriate treatment for your specific case.

What our patients say

On a 1-10 scale I give Dr Hudson a 15. I had a melanoma procedure he explained the procedure in detail. He listened to my questions and concerns and put me at ease. Dr Hudson is a very compassionate Dr.

- Jeff P.

In nearly 50 years of treatment for skin problems, including two melanomas, I have never had better care than I receive at Fairview Dermatology.

- William F.

Dr. Hudson was excellent. He took the time to answer my questions without making me feel rushed. He did a full body examination, looking for anything out of the ordinary, and did find one spot that was a little suspicious. It was biopsied and turned out to be a slow-growing cancer, but we got right on it. He explained my options thoroughly and we now have a plan in place. My wife has also previously visited him and she trusts him completely as well, so we've found a good dermatologist.

- Tom G.

I just had a surgical procedure at Fairview Dermatology. Dr. Hudson explained everything to me and answered all my questions. He provided me with confidence and assured me he will be available should I need anything as I heal.

- Kevin H.

Dr Hudson took care of my skin cancer in a thorough, very caring, professional way. He took his time to make me feel comfortable and I'm generally very scared of doctors having had bad experiences (out of state) with dermatologists in the past. I highly recommend him to anyone without hesitation of any kind. Nurse Kourtney is also awesome! The entire staff is very kind and understanding. I wish all doctor offices could be like this one!

- Quotes2Love

Dr. Hudson, is a Dr who truly listens to understand a patient's concerns. I chose an alternative treatment for a basal cell carcinoma, and he was respectful of my decision, which I truly appreciated. I highly recommend Dr. Hudson and this practice!

- Cynthia L.

The procedure I had was handled very professionally. The doctor and staff were ready for me even though I arrived early for my appointment. A full explanation of what they were going to do before they began, helped me to stay relaxed through out the procedure.

- Richard P.

Dr. Hudson and staff provided excellent care for me. He was professional and friendly, immediately diagnosing my skin care needs in a comfortable environment. The treatment was successful. I highly recommend Fairview Dermatology for comprehensive dermatological care.

- Mary K.

Thorough, thoughtful and great results from Dr. Hudson's skin cancer diagnosis and treatment.

- Tommy M.

Because I have some skin cancers, Dr. Hudson has been very informative, caring and helpful. He has heard what I have to say about treatments we've discussed.

- Leland P.

Frequently Asked Questions About Melanoma

What distinguishes melanoma from other skin cancers?

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that originates in melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment. Unlike other common skin cancers, melanoma has a higher tendency to spread to other parts of the body if not caught early. It can occur anywhere on the body, even in areas not typically exposed to the sun, and may develop in existing moles or appear as new skin growths.

How can I identify potential signs of melanoma?

The ABCDE rule is a helpful guide for identifying potential melanomas: Asymmetry (one half doesn't match the other), Border irregularity, Color variations within the same mole, Diameter larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser), and Evolving size, shape, or color. Additionally, any mole that looks different from your others ('ugly duckling' sign), or any new skin growth that itches, bleeds, or doesn't heal should be evaluated by a dermatologist.

Are certain individuals more prone to developing melanoma?

While melanoma can affect anyone, certain factors increase risk. These include fair skin, history of severe sunburns, excessive UV exposure (including tanning beds), living in sunny or high-altitude climates, having many moles or atypical moles, family history of melanoma, and a weakened immune system. However, it's important to note that people without these risk factors, including those with darker skin tones, can still develop melanoma.

How is melanoma diagnosed and staged?

Melanoma diagnosis typically begins with a thorough skin examination. If a suspicious lesion is found, a biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis. If melanoma is confirmed, further tests may be conducted to determine its stage, which indicates how far it has spread. These may include imaging studies and, in some cases, sentinel lymph node biopsy. The stage of melanoma is crucial in determining the most appropriate treatment approach.

What steps can I take to reduce my risk of melanoma?

While not all melanomas are preventable, you can significantly reduce your risk by: practicing sun safety (using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, seeking shade), avoiding tanning beds, performing regular skin self-exams, and having annual skin checks with a dermatologist, especially if you have risk factors. It's also important to know your skin and promptly report any changes to your healthcare provider. Remember, early detection and treatment are key to the best possible outcomes.

Let's Talk

With extensive experience diagnosing and treating melanoma, Dr. Hudson is committed to early detection and up to date treatment of skin cancer. If you are interested in skin cancer screening or treatment give us a call at 972-747-0000 to request an appointment. Our scheduling coordinator will reach out to finalize your appointment date and time.