Melanoma Symptoms

Melanoma is a highly malignant tumor originating from melanocytes in the skin or mucous membranes, with strong invasiveness and metastatic potential. Its progression can be very rapid, evolving from what appears to be an ordinary mole into a deep tissue or even systemic life-threatening lesion, hence being called the "silent killer." The disease is closely related to factors such as ultraviolet radiation, genetic predisposition, and immune deficiency. Most patients do not notice abnormalities in the early stage, which often delays diagnosis and treatment.

This disease is particularly prevalent among fair-skinned populations worldwide, especially in the United States, Australia, and New Zealand, where light skin and strong UV exposure place it at the top of skin malignancies. In recent years, Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia have also seen a significant increase in melanoma incidence due to hot climates and frequent outdoor activities. Because of its early metastasis and poor prognosis, the disease has gained worldwide attention.

Melanoma Staging

Stage I: Early lesion, strong localization
Melanoma is located in the epidermis or superficial dermis, without deep tissue invasion or metastasis. Most patients at this stage show mild changes in moles, such as darkening color or increasing diameter. If detected early and completely excised, the cure rate is high, with a five-year survival rate exceeding 90%. Postoperative review and regular follow-up are essential.

Stage II: Moderate progression, dermis involvement
At this stage, the tumor thickens and may present with ulceration or bleeding, though lymph node metastasis has not yet occurred. Skin abnormalities become more obvious, with thickened moles and unclear borders. Surgery remains the main treatment, combined with immunotherapy to reduce recurrence risk. The five-year survival rate ranges from 70%-85%, with risks beginning to appear.

Stage III: Lymph node involvement, evident local metastasis
Melanoma has metastasized to regional lymph nodes, with possible local pain, nodules, or lymph node enlargement. Treatment often involves wide surgical excision combined with immunotherapy, with some patients requiring targeted therapy. The five-year survival rate drops to 40%-60%. Close monitoring for distant metastasis is needed, and outcomes depend on individual response.

Stage IV: Extensive metastasis, difficult treatment
Melanoma has metastasized distantly, often involving the lungs, liver, bones, or brain. Patients may present with systemic weakness, organ dysfunction, or even multi-organ failure. At this stage, a single treatment approach is insufficient, and multidisciplinary interventions are required, including immune reconstruction cell therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted drugs. The five-year survival rate is below 20%.

Detailed Symptoms of Melanoma

1. Rapid enlargement of a pigmented mole within a short period
A previously stable mole suddenly enlarges noticeably within weeks or months, often exceeding 5 mm in diameter, suggesting abnormal melanocyte proliferation.

2. Irregular borders of the mole
While normal moles have clear boundaries, melanoma lesions often appear jagged, curved, or spreading, with marked asymmetry.

3. Mixed and uneven pigmentation
Melanoma typically presents as a mixture of colors such as black, brown, blue, and red, with uneven tones and differing central and peripheral pigmentation.

4. Noticeable changes in mole surface structure
The surface changes from smooth to rough, possibly with crusting, scaling, ulceration, oozing, or pus, sometimes accompanied by odor.

5. Frequent itching or pain in the mole area
The mole site may suddenly develop itching, stinging, or tenderness, indicating inflammation or infiltration of surrounding tissues by tumor cells.

6. Redness or mild swelling around the mole
During melanoma progression, localized inflammatory reactions may appear, with a faint red halo or mild edema around the lesion.

7. Appearance of new moles in middle or later life
Newly appearing moles in middle-aged or elderly individuals, especially in sun-exposed areas, should be considered an early warning of malignancy.

8. Spontaneous bleeding or ulceration of a mole
Without obvious trauma, moles that suddenly bleed or ulcerate often indicate increased invasiveness of melanoma and require immediate medical attention.

9. Painless enlargement of nearby lymph nodes
In advanced disease, lymph node swelling may occur in the armpits, groin, or other regions. These nodes are firm and painless, suggesting regional metastasis.

Conclusion

Experts at United Life International Medical Center remind that although melanoma originates on the skin surface, its danger goes far beyond local lesions. The disease often begins insidiously, progresses rapidly, and metastasizes aggressively, easily mistaken for ordinary moles or skin inflammation, leading to delayed treatment. Any new or changing pigmented mole should undergo professional examination as soon as possible. High-risk individuals should undergo regular skin cancer screenings, as early detection, early intervention, and early treatment are the only effective ways to improve survival.