Polypoid melanoma
Polypoid Melanoma
Polypoid melanoma (pronunciation: poh-lip-oid mel-uh-noh-muh) is a subtype of melanoma, a type of skin cancer that originates from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin.
Etymology
The term "polypoid" is derived from the Greek words "polypous" meaning "many-footed" and "eidos" meaning "form" or "shape". This refers to the characteristic growth pattern of this type of melanoma, which often resembles a polyp or a mushroom-like structure. "Melanoma" is derived from the Greek "melas" meaning "black" and "oma" meaning "tumor", referring to the dark pigmentation often seen in these tumors.
Definition
Polypoid melanoma is characterized by its polypoid or pedunculated (stalk-like) growth pattern. It is a rare and aggressive form of melanoma that often presents as a rapidly growing, darkly pigmented nodule. Despite its aggressive nature, it is often curable if detected and treated early.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of polypoid melanoma is a rapidly growing, darkly pigmented skin lesion. The lesion may be raised and often has an irregular shape and uneven coloration. Other symptoms may include bleeding or ulceration of the lesion.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of polypoid melanoma typically involves a physical examination, a detailed patient history, and a biopsy of the suspicious lesion. The biopsy sample is then examined under a microscope by a pathologist to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment for polypoid melanoma typically involves surgical removal of the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue around it. Depending on the stage of the disease, additional treatments such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation therapy may be recommended.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Polypoid melanoma
- Wikipedia's article - Polypoid melanoma
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski