Metastatic melanoma is the most advanced stage of melanoma. It happens when cancer cells spread to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, bones, and central nervous system.
Because of this spread, a person with metastatic melanoma may develop symptoms such as hard lumps under the skin, body pain, unexplained weight loss, extreme fatigue, and a swollen belly. The symptoms can vary depending on where the cancer has spread.
If you notice symptoms or signs that may indicate melanoma, you should see a dermatologist or your primary care provider. After evaluating your condition, the doctor will recommend the most appropriate treatment, which may include surgery, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.
Main symptoms
The symptoms of metastatic melanoma can differ based on where the cancer has spread and may include:
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Excessive tiredness
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Yellowing of the skin and eyes
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Seizures
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Headache
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Hard lumps on the skin
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Body pain
Other common signs and symptoms of melanoma may also appear, including skin moles, spots, or marks with irregular borders and multiple colors, as well as sores that heal slowly.
Also recommended: What Melanoma Looks Like (with Pictures): 5 Signs tuasaude.com/en/what-melanoma-looks-likeConfirming a diagnosis
A dermatologist or oncologist confirms the diagnosis of metastatic melanoma by evaluating the person's symptoms, physical findings, and medical history.
To help confirm the diagnosis, the doctor may request imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI, or ultrasound of the chest, head, or abdomen.
The doctor may also order a biopsy, a procedure that examines a small sample of tissue from areas such as the skin, lungs, muscles, bones, liver, kidneys, or spleen.
Possible causes
Metastatic melanoma can happen when melanoma is not identified in its early stages, allowing cancer cells to spread to other parts of the body, such as the lungs, liver, bones, and gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
According to the National Cancer Institute, exposure to UV radiation and greater sensitivity of the skin to UV radiation are important risk factors for melanoma.
Other factors that may also increase the risk of metastatic melanoma include lighter skin, a personal or family history of melanoma, and a weakened immune system due to other conditions, such as HIV, lymphoma, or a history of transplant.
Treatment options
Metastatic melanoma is not usually curable, but treatment can help control the disease and improve survival. The main goals of treatment are to slow cancer cell growth, relieve symptoms, delay disease progression, and improve life expectancy and quality of life.
Based on the National Cancer Institute, treatment for advanced melanoma may include surgery, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, depending on the stage and extent of the disease.
Immunotherapy may be recommended to help the immune system fight cancer more effectively.