Word parts
What it means
The most dangerous common skin cancer, because it can spread (metastasismuh-TAS-tuh-sisThe spread of cancer cells from where the cancer started to other parts of the body.meta- change, beyondstasis standing, placeFull entry ) to other organs early. It can grow from an existing mole or as a new spot, and it can also start in the eye or other places with pigment cells. Sun exposure and sunburns, tanning beds, fair skin and many moles raise the risk. Found early, it can usually be cured by removing it.
For the nurse
Teach the ABCDE warning signs of a mole: Asymmetry, irregular Border, uneven Color, Diameter larger than 6 mm (a pencil eraser) and Evolving (changing). Teach sun protection: shade, clothing, broad-spectrum sunscreen and no tanning beds.
Remember it
ABCDE: asymmetry, border, color, diameter, evolving.
At a glance
| Spanish | melanoma |
|---|---|
| Also written | melanomas |
Related terms
lesion
An area of tissue that has been damaged or has changed from normal, such as a sore, wound, lump or spot.
nodule
A small, firm, rounded lump of tissue that can be felt or seen, in or under the skin or in an organ.
metastasis
The spread of cancer cells from where the cancer started to other parts of the body.
carcin/o
A word part that means cancer.