Black skin cancer and precursors

Pigmentation in the form of moles can be found on every human body. Most of these moles are benign and change minimally throughout life. Congenital melanocytic nevi are present at birth, and new moles appear repeatedly over the years. Rarely do these transform into malignant tissue growths. However, when this does occur, it is called skin cancer.

Forms and causes

1. Malignant melanoma: If the mutation affects the melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells, this tissue change is called "black skin cancer" or "malignant melanoma." Risk factors include genetic predisposition, strong sun exposure, and age. Skin type is also relevant.
2. Dysplastic nevus cell nevi: These are moles that are undergoing changes and can be precursors to melanoma. There are certain characteristics that should prompt a dermatological examination to determine whether the change is cause for concern.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made using a dermatoscope and a microscopic epiluminescence camera. This allows our dermatologists to assess skin lesions at 70x magnification. The mole is thus visualized in detail, showing its pigmentation. In cases of rapid change, unusual pigmentation, or other circumstances such as itching or bleeding, the mole is completely surgically removed and sent to a dermatohistological laboratory for tissue analysis.

Therapy

If the moles are dysplastic nevus cell nevi, meaning they are precursors to cell changes, regular monitoring of all moles and associated photographic documentation is recommended. Risk factors that promote the development of melanoma should be avoided even more. Once melanoma has been diagnosed, treatment depends on the histological assessment, i.e., the stage of the disease. Standard treatment includes re-excision, meaning the surgical removal of the affected area with a larger safety margin on all sides, and examination of the surrounding lymph nodes and other organs to rule out metastasis. Medication or radiation therapy is rarely used.