Melanoma

Melanoma: Prevention and Early Detection at the García-Legaz Dermatological Institute

What is melanoma?
Melanoma is the most aggressive type of skin cancer. It originates in melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives our skin its color. Although it accounts for only 5% of cutaneous cancers, it is responsible for 75% of skin-cancer deaths due to its ability to metastasize.

At the García-Legaz Dermatological Institute, under the direction of Dr. Marta García-Legaz, we specialize in the early detection and prevention of this type of skin cancer, offering our patients in Murcia and the surrounding areas the utmost guarantee in dermatological care.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing melanoma:

Sun spots on the skin, or solar lentigines, are mainly the result of prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays. However, various factors can exacerbate these pigmentation changes:

Excessive sun exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the primary risk factor. In the Region of Murcia, where we enjoy more than 300 days of sun per year, this factor is especially significant.
Tanning beds: The use of sunbeds significantly increases the risk of melanoma.
Multiple moles: Having more than fifty common moles or the presence of atypical moles increases the risk.
Warning signsThe ABCs+DE of melanoma

Dr. García-Legaz recommends watching for any changes in existing moles or the appearance of new ones. Remembering the “ABC+DE” can help:

A – Asymmetry: An asymmetrical mole, where one half does not resemble the other.
B – Borders: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined borders.
C – Color: Variations in color within the same mole.
D – Diameter: Moles larger than 6 mm in diameter.
E – Evolution: Changes in size, shape, color, or elevation.

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Don't wait any longer to take care of your skin.

Prevention: Your Best Ally

At the García-Legaz Dermatological Institute we firmly believe that prevention is fundamental to reducing the risk of melanoma:

Daily sun protection: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) every day, even on cloudy days.
Avoid intense exposure: Especially during peak UV hours (10 am – 4 pm).
Appropriate clothing: Wear hats, sunglasses, and clothing that covers your skin.
Regular self-examination: Check your skin monthly to spot any changes.
Professional check-ups: Attend periodic dermatological screenings.

Our Specialized Services

At the García-Legaz Dermatological Institute we offer services focused on the prevention and early detection of melanoma:

Comprehensive Dermatological Evaluation
Dr. García-Legaz and her team perform a thorough skin examination using digital dermoscopy, which allows them to visualize skin structures in fine detail and identify any suspicious lesions.

Full-Body Mole Mapping:For patients with multiple moles, digital body mapping allows you to: Create a complete photographic record of every mole Compare changes over time Detect new lesions or alterations in existing ones
Preventive Treatments: We offer therapies to help reduce accumulated sun damage: Medical peels: Remove the skin's damaged surface layers. Photodynamic therapy: Treats precancerous lesions. Fractional laser: Stimulates skin regeneration and reduces signs of photo-aging.
Suspicious Lesion Removal: When we identify a suspicious mole, we remove it using minimally invasive techniques, prioritizing both safety and aesthetic outcome.When to visit us? We recommend an annual dermatological check-up as a preventive measure at our clinic (C/ Acisclo Díaz, 2, Esc. A, 2 B, 30005 Murcia). However, please come in immediately if you notice:
A new mole after age 30
Changes in existing moles
Lesions that bleed, itch, or hurt
Spots that do not disappear

Commitment to Your Health

At the García-Legaz Dermatological Institute, Dr. Marta García-Legaz and her team understand that beauty and health go hand in hand. Our professionals are committed not only to enhancing your appearance but also to safeguarding your long-term well-being.

Early detection of melanoma can mean the difference between a simple treatment and a serious problem.

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Prevention is always the best treatment.

Remember: Your skin is the largest organ of your body. At the García-Legaz Dermatological Institute, we care for it as it deserves.

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