What are the different types of melanoma?
In this blog we describe the main types of melanoma skin cancer:
Superficial spreading melanoma - This is the most common type of melanoma. Tends to occur on sun-exposed skin, most on the backs of males and lower limbs of females. This type of melanoma often develops from non-cancerous dysplastic mole.
Nodular melanoma - This is the second most common type of melanoma and the most aggressive. Nodular melanoma tends to grow in depth more than it does it width. It may present itself in a number of colours including a colourless form.
Lentigo maligna melanoma - Less common type of melanoma and least aggressive form of melanoma. It is often found on body of an elderly person in areas that have been severely exposed to sunlight over the years like the face, neck or forearms. Removal can be tricky because of their larger size and the fact that they often appear on the face, head or neck.
Desmoplastic melanoma - rare form of melanoma which is found on sun exposed areas of the skin. Diagnosis can be difficult as it may be confused with a scar or cyst.
Acral lentiginous melanoma - This is the most common melanoma for people with darker skin types. It is often observed under nails, on the palms of your hand or sole of the feet.
Ocular melanoma - is a cancer of the eye. It is often represented by a growing dark spot on the iris.
Anorectal melanoma - Is a rare form of cancer which starts in the anus or rectum. Symptoms can include bleeding from the rectum, change in bowl habits and needing to go to the toilet often.
Around 90% of melanoma skin cancers are caused by the cumulative impact of exposure to sunlight.
Dermatologists recommend sun protective clothing as the first line of defence against sunburn, skin ageing and skin cancer.
Solbari Sun Protection offers an award-winning range of UPF 50+ sun protective clothing, broad brim sun hats, sun protective arm sleeves and sun umbrellas.
You can find out more about Solbari's certified UPF50+ sun protective range by clicking the links below:
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Men UPF 50+
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Accessories UPF 50+
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