Skin cancer in the form of melanoma is considered the most dangerous type of skin cancer due to its rapid metastasis, posing a significant health threat.

A Highly Malignant Condition

According to Master’s degree holder and Dr. Nguyễn Quang Minh, Deputy Head of the Department of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and Functional Rehabilitation at the National Dermatology Hospital, skin cancer cases are on the rise. Among all types of skin cancer, melanoma is the most malignant.

Dr. Minh shared a case where a patient discovered melanoma and passed away just six months later. Compared to lung or liver cancer, melanoma is equally dangerous.

He recalled treating a patient whose melanoma initially appeared as a mole. Upon noticing abnormalities, the patient went to a spa to have it removed. Unfortunately, the laser treatment stimulated the cancer cells, causing them to spread rapidly.

By the time the patient came for an exam, the affected skin area had been damaged, and there was already groin lymph node metastasis. A biopsy confirmed it was melanoma.

In another case, a patient had a lesion on the heel diagnosed as melanoma. But when they arrived at the hospital, the cancer had already metastasized, and the patient died just three months later.

Doctors emphasized that melanoma requires immediate surgical intervention. Even a single day of delay could allow cancer cells to enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system, rapidly spreading to nearby organs.

Melanoma also responds poorly to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Current treatments include immunobiological therapy, but it remains experimental and not widely available.

According to Dr. Minh, the most effective treatment for this type of cancer is wide excision surgery. Lymph node dissection should be considered for lesions with a Breslow thickness of over 1mm.

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11 Warning Signs of Skin Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore

Below are “small” symptoms that can lead to big problems if not detected early:

1. Asymmetrical Moles
   If you divide the mole in half and the two halves don’t match, this is a warning sign.

2. Irregular or Jagged Borders
   Normal moles usually have smooth, even borders.

3. Darkening or Change in Color
   A mole that becomes darker or changes color should be checked.

4. Growing in Size
   Any mole larger than the eraser on a pencil tip should be evaluated.

5. Bleeding or Painful Moles
   Bleeding, itching, or painful moles can be a warning sign of melanoma.

6. Persistent Bumps on Sun-Exposed Skin
   If a pimple-like bump doesn’t heal after a month, it may not be a regular pimple.

7. Bruising on the Feet That Won’t Heal
   Unexplained or persistent bruising on the feet is another warning sign.

8. HPV Exposure
   Genital areas infected with HPV can develop squamous cells, leading to skin cancer.

9. “Non-Healing Sores”
   This term often applies to issues in the mouth (e.g., from smoking). Oral cancer is usually SCC, so quit smoking to reduce risk.

10. Brown or Black Streaks Under Fingernails or Toenails
    Unusual discoloration under nails may be a warning sign.

11. Crusting or Peeling Skin
    While this can resemble dry skin, psoriasis, or eczema, skin cancer lesions tend to swell and do not respond to topical creams like these other conditions.

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Although these symptoms are not always 100% indicative of skin cancer, it’s crucial to see a dermatologist to be sure. Early detection could save your life.