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Melanoma Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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melanoma

[mɛləˈnoʊmə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops from the pigment-producing cells known as melanocytes. It is considered the most serious form of skin cancer due to its ability to spread to other parts of the body if not detected early. The primary cause of melanoma is excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds.

Synonyms

malignant melanoma, skin cancer.

Examples of usage

  • She was diagnosed with melanoma after noticing a change in her mole.
  • Early detection of melanoma can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
  • Using sunscreen can help reduce the risk of developing melanoma.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • Melanoma was first recognized as a distinct type of skin cancer in the early 19th century.
  • The first successful surgical treatment for melanoma was performed by surgeon Dr. William B. Coley in the 1890s.
  • The increase in melanoma cases has been linked to changing fashion trends in sun exposure, particularly the popularity of tanning in the 20th century.

Science

  • Melanoma can develop anywhere on the body but is most common in areas that have been exposed to the sun.
  • There are different types of melanoma, including superficial spreading melanoma, nodular melanoma, and lentigo maligna melanoma.
  • Genetic mutations in certain genes, such as BRAF and NRAS, are known to increase the risk of developing melanoma.

Prevention

  • Wearing sunscreen can significantly lower the risk of developing melanoma.
  • Regular skin checks for unusual moles or changes can help with early detection, which is crucial for successful treatment.
  • Protective clothing and seeking shade during peak sun hours are recommended preventive measures.

Pop Culture

  • Several celebrities have publicly shared their experiences with melanoma, helping to raise awareness about skin cancer.
  • Movies and documentaries sometimes feature characters dealing with skin cancer, highlighting the importance of skin health.
  • Melanoma awareness months often involve notable public events and campaigns to educate people about the risks and prevention methods.

Origin of 'melanoma'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'melanoma' comes from the Greek word 'melas,' meaning black, referring to the dark color of the tumors.
  • The suffix 'oma' is from Greek 'oma,' meaning tumor or swelling, indicating that it is a form of growth.
  • Melanoma is one of the few cancer names that directly references the pigment-producing cells involved.

The term 'melanoma' originates from the Greek words 'melas' meaning 'black' and 'oma' meaning 'tumor' or 'swelling'. This reflects the dark pigment associated with this type of skin cancer, as melanoma often appears as a dark lesion on the skin. The first historical descriptions of melanoma date back to the early 19th century when physicians began to categorize skin lesions more precisely. Over the years, the understanding of melanoma's characteristics and risk factors has evolved, with a greater emphasis on the role of UV exposure and genetic predisposition in the development of this disease. In medical literature, melanoma has become a significant focus of research due to its aggressive nature and increasing incidence rates globally. Today, melanoma is a critical area of study within dermatology and oncology, and advances continue to be made in early detection and treatment strategies.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,871, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.