Meaning & Definition of word "Melanoma"
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Melanoma
/ˌmɛləˈnoʊmə/
noun:
- 1. A type of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes, which are the cells that produce the pigment melanin.
- Example: After noticing a suspicious mole, she went to the dermatologist and was diagnosed with melanoma.
- 2. Melanoma can be highly aggressive and has the potential to spread to other parts of the body.
- Example: He learned that early detection is crucial in successfully treating melanoma.
- 3. There are different types of melanoma, including superficial spreading melanoma, nodular melanoma, and acral lentiginous melanoma.
- Example: The doctor explained the various forms of melanoma and how they differ in their development.
- 4. Exposure to UV radiation can increase the risk of developing melanoma.
- Example: Protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure can help reduce the risk of melanoma.
- 5. Melanoma is more likely to occur in individuals with lighter skin types.
- Example: The study showed a correlation between skin type and the incidence of melanoma.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek word 'melas' meaning 'black' and 'oma' meaning 'tumor'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
early detection of melanoma:
Identifying melanoma in its initial stages to improve treatment outcomes.
melanoma awareness:
Efforts and campaigns to educate the public about melanoma prevention and treatment.
Related Words
melanocyte:
A cell that produces the pigment melanin, found in the skin.
pigmentation:
The coloring of the skin, which may be affected by melanoma.
Slang Meanings of melanoma
Meaning: Skin cancer
Example Sentence: He called it 'the bad skin thing,' referencing melanoma.
Meaning: The dark mole
Example Sentence: She was worried about that dark mole on her arm, just a melanoma waiting to happen.