Amelanotic melanoma
Amelanotic Melanoma
Amelanotic melanoma (pronounced: a-mel-a-no-tic mel-a-no-ma) is a type of melanoma that does not produce melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes.
Etymology
The term "amelanotic" is derived from the Greek words "a-" meaning "without", "melas" meaning "black", and "-otic" meaning "pertaining to". "Melanoma" is derived from the Greek words "melas" and "-oma" meaning "tumor". Therefore, "amelanotic melanoma" literally means "a tumor without black color".
Definition
Amelanotic melanoma is a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer that lacks the pigment melanin. It is often colorless or pink, and can be mistaken for other conditions, making it difficult to diagnose.
Symptoms
Symptoms of amelanotic melanoma may include a new, non-pigmented or lightly pigmented growth on the skin, changes in an existing mole, or a sore that does not heal.
Causes
Like other forms of melanoma, amelanotic melanoma is caused by damage to the DNA of skin cells, often due to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of amelanotic melanoma often involves a physical examination, a review of the patient's medical history, and a biopsy of the suspicious lesion.
Treatment
Treatment options for amelanotic melanoma may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy.
Prognosis
The prognosis for amelanotic melanoma depends on various factors, including the stage of the disease at diagnosis, the patient's overall health, and the response to treatment.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Amelanotic melanoma
- Wikipedia's article - Amelanotic melanoma
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