Lentigo maligna melanoma

Lentigo Maligna Melanoma (LMM) is a type of melanoma that typically occurs in older adults, often in areas of the body that have been exposed to the sun. It is a slow-growing form of skin cancer that starts in cells called melanocytes, which produce the pigment (color) in your skin.

Signs and Symptoms

The first sign of Lentigo Maligna Melanoma is often a patch of skin that looks like a freckle or age spot but gradually enlarges and changes color. The patch may be tan, brown, black, red, or white. It may also have an irregular border and different colors within it.

Causes

Lentigo Maligna Melanoma is caused by changes (mutations) in the DNA of skin cells. These mutations cause the cells to grow out of control and form a mass of cancerous cells. The exact cause of these mutations is not known, but they are thought to be related to long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Lentigo Maligna Melanoma usually involves a skin biopsy, in which a small sample of the suspicious skin is removed and examined under a microscope. Other tests, such as imaging tests or a sentinel lymph node biopsy, may be done to determine if the cancer has spread.

Treatment

Treatment for Lentigo Maligna Melanoma depends on the stage of the cancer and may include surgery, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these.

Prognosis

The prognosis for Lentigo Maligna Melanoma depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and the response to treatment.

See Also

• Melanoma
• Skin Cancer
• Biopsy
• Radiation Therapy
• Immunotherapy

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