Meaning & Definition of word "Melanoma"

Melanoma

/ˌmɛləˈnoʊmə/

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.

Derived from the Greek word 'melas' meaning 'black' and 'oma' meaning 'tumor'.

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.

melanocyte:

A cell that produces the pigment melanin, found in the skin.

pigmentation:

The coloring of the skin, which may be affected by 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.