Malignant Melanoma Treatment in Northbrook & Hinsdale | Illinois Dermatology Institute

Malignant melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that develops in melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells of the skin. Although less common than other skin cancers, melanoma can spread to different parts of the body if not detected and treated early.

At Illinois Dermatology Institute, our board-certified dermatologists provide comprehensive melanoma screening, diagnosis, and treatment in Northbrook, Hinsdale, and surrounding areas.

What Is Malignant Melanoma?

Malignant melanoma develops when melanocytes grow uncontrollably due to DNA damage, most commonly caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. Melanoma may develop from an existing mole or appear as a new dark or irregular skin lesion.

Early diagnosis is important because melanoma has a higher risk of spreading compared to other forms of skin cancer.

What Causes Malignant Melanoma?

Melanoma is primarily associated with ultraviolet (UV) radiation damage from sunlight and tanning beds.

Common melanoma risk factors include:

• Excessive sun exposure
• History of blistering sunburns
• Large number of moles
• Atypical or dysplastic moles
• Family history of melanoma
• Weakened immune system

Signs & Symptoms of Malignant Melanoma

Melanoma may appear as:

• A changing mole
• An irregular dark spot
• A lesion with uneven borders
• Multiple colors within one mole
• A rapidly growing pigmented lesion

Any changing or unusual skin lesion should be evaluated by a dermatologist.

Types of Malignant Melanoma

Our dermatologists evaluate suspicious pigmented lesions and identify different forms of melanoma.

• Superficial Spreading Melanoma: The most common subtype, superficial spreading melanoma often appears as a flat or slightly raised lesion with irregular borders and color variation.
• Nodular Melanoma: Nodular melanoma is a more aggressive subtype that may appear as a rapidly growing dark bump or raised lesion.
• Lentigo Maligna Melanoma: This subtype commonly develops on chronically sun-exposed areas such as the face in older adults. It may begin as a slowly enlarging flat pigmented patch.
• Acral Lentiginous Melanoma: Acral lentiginous melanoma develops on the palms, soles, or beneath the nails and may occur in individuals of all skin tones.

Malignant Melanoma Treatment Options

Melanoma treatment depends on the depth, stage, and location of the lesion. Early detection and prompt treatment are important because melanoma has a higher risk of spreading compared to other skin cancers.

Melanoma Evaluation & Diagnosis

• Full-Body Skin Exams
  Comprehensive skin evaluations help identify suspicious pigmented lesions and changing moles.
• Dermoscopic Mole Evaluation
  Advanced skin examination techniques may be used to evaluate irregular pigmented lesions more closely.
• Skin Biopsies
  A biopsy is performed to confirm melanoma and determine lesion depth and staging characteristics.

Malignant Melanoma Treatments

• Surgical Excision
  Melanoma lesions are surgically removed along with a margin of surrounding tissue.
• Sentinel Lymph Node Evaluation Referrals
  Some melanoma cases may require lymph node evaluation depending on lesion depth and staging findings.
• Oncology Referrals
  Patients with advanced melanoma may require multidisciplinary oncology evaluation and management.
• Ongoing Mole & Skin Monitoring
  Routine follow-up skin exams may help monitor for recurrence or new suspicious lesions.

Related Services:
Excision & Repair

What Is the Most Effective Treatment for Malignant Melanoma?

The most effective melanoma treatment depends on the stage and depth of the lesion. Early detection and surgical removal are important for improving treatment outcomes and reducing the risk of cancer spread.

When Should You See a Dermatologist for Melanoma?

You should schedule a dermatology evaluation if you notice:

• A changing mole
• An irregular dark spot
• A lesion with multiple colors
• A rapidly growing mole
• Bleeding or itching pigmented lesions
• A new or unusual skin growth

Routine skin exams are especially important for individuals with multiple moles, significant sun exposure, or a family history of melanoma.

Malignant Melanoma Treatment in Northbrook & Hinsdale

Illinois Dermatology Institute provides melanoma screening and skin cancer evaluations at multiple convenient locations, including:

• Northbrook
• Hinsdale

Our dermatology team focuses on early melanoma detection, diagnosis, and personalized treatment planning.

Malignant Melanoma Specialists

Our board-certified dermatologists provide comprehensive melanoma evaluation and skin cancer care focused on early detection, accurate diagnosis, and personalized treatment planning.

Book a Melanoma Consultation

If you notice changing moles, irregular pigmented lesions, or signs of skin cancer, our dermatology team can help.

Schedule a melanoma consultation at Illinois Dermatology Institute for comprehensive skin evaluation and treatment options.