Melanoma Treatment
in Beverly Hills, CA
Couture Dermatology specializes in diagnosing and treating melanoma in Beverly Hills, CA. Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that can spread quickly if not detected early. Our experienced dermatologists provide personalized care using advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.
Table of Contents
Understanding Melanoma
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops from the pigment-producing cells known as melanocytes. It is considered the most aggressive form of skin cancer due to its ability to spread rapidly to other parts of the body. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes and reducing the risk of complications.
Signs and Symptoms of Melanoma
Changing Mole Appearance
A common symptom of melanoma is a mole that changes in size, shape, or color over time. These changes may include irregular borders, uneven coloring, or an increase in diameter. Monitoring your skin for any evolving moles is essential for early detection.
New Unusual Skin Spots
The sudden appearance of a new and unusual spot on your skin may signal melanoma. These spots often look different from other moles or freckles, appearing asymmetrical or displaying multiple colors. Noticing new skin lesions early can be crucial for prompt diagnosis.
Itching or Tenderness
Melanoma may cause an existing mole or skin lesion to become itchy, tender, or painful. Discomfort in a mole that was previously symptom-free should not be ignored, as it could indicate changes beneath the skin. Persistent irritation warrants evaluation by a dermatologist.
Bleeding or Oozing Lesions
A mole or lesion that bleeds, oozes, or forms a crust can be a warning sign of melanoma. Such symptoms suggest that the skin cells are behaving abnormally, which may require medical assessment. Early intervention can help prevent the cancer from advancing.
Spread of Pigment
The spread of pigment from the border of a mole into surrounding skin may indicate melanoma. This can appear as dark streaks or patches extending beyond the original mole. Prompt attention to these changes is important for early and effective treatment.
Primary Causes of Melanoma
Melanoma most commonly develops due to excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or tanning beds, which damages the DNA in skin cells. Other risk factors include having fair skin, a family history of melanoma, or numerous moles. Protecting your skin from UV rays and monitoring changes in moles are important steps in reducing your risk.
Melanoma Treatment Options
- Surgical excision removes the melanoma and surrounding tissue.
- Immunotherapy boosts the body's immune system to attack cancer cells.
- Targeted therapy uses medications to address specific genetic mutations in melanoma cells.
- Radiation therapy targets and destroys cancer cells with focused energy.
- Chemotherapy may be used for advanced melanoma to kill cancer cells throughout the body.
- Clinical trials provide access to new and emerging melanoma treatments.
Who Is at Risk?
- Individuals with changing or suspicious moles are ideal candidates.
- People with a family history of melanoma should consider evaluation.
- Those with fair skin and frequent sun exposure are at increased risk.
- Anyone noticing new or unusual skin lesions should seek assessment.
Check Your Insurance Coverage
Benefits of Melanoma Treatment
Dr. Chinonso
Abisogun, MD, FAAD
Why Choose Couture Dermatology?
Choosing Couture Dermatology means entrusting your melanoma care to highly skilled specialists with extensive experience in skin cancer diagnosis and treatment. Our team utilizes state-of-the-art technology and evidence-based therapies to deliver the highest standard of care. We are committed to providing compassionate, individualized attention to ensure the best possible outcome for every patient.
Not sure which treatment is
best for you?
Check Your Insurance Coverage
Testimonials
My acne was bad to the point that I started to not recognize myself, but now I am finally feeling more me again…
- Rosie D.
Healthy Skin.
Beautiful
Complexion.
A More Confident You.
