Melanin (Melanoma)

Melanin is a natural skin pigment that protects our bodies from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. Testing for melanin (melanoma) is a crucial tool in the fight against skin cancer. At IntroLab in Belgrade, we are committed to offering top-notch testing services, utilizing the latest techniques for accurate and early detection of melanoma. Scheduling a melanin (melanoma) test is a vital step towards maintaining your health.

What is melanin (melanoma)?

Melanin is the pigment that gives skin its color, produced by skin cells known as melanocytes. Melanoma, on the other hand, is a type of skin cancer that begins in melanocytes. When melanocytes start to multiply abnormally, they can form a malignant tumor, known as melanoma. Melanomas can vary in shape and color and often have an irregular appearance. Without early detection, melanoma can metastasize to other parts of the body, making it very dangerous.

Why is testing important?

Measuring melanin and monitoring potential changes in the skin is crucial for the early detection of melanoma. Early stages of melanoma are often treatable, but late detection can lead to the spread of melanoma to other parts of the body, making treatment much more difficult. Melanin (melanoma) testing can detect changes in the size, shape, color, or texture of moles, which can be an indication of melanoma development.

What do the results indicate?

Test results can point to various skin conditions, including benign nevi (moles), dysplastic nevi (atypical moles that can become melanoma), or melanoma. The results can also indicate other skin conditions, such as solar keratosis, basal cell carcinoma, or squamous cell carcinoma of the skin.

High and low values

The concentration of melanin in the skin can vary among individuals. Higher concentrations of melanin result in a darker skin tone but do not necessarily indicate melanoma. However, a rapid change in skin color or nevus, or the appearance of new nevi, can be a warning sign.

Sample Type

A physical sample is typically not required. The most common methods for detecting changes related to melanin and melanoma are visual skin examination and dermoscopy. If melanoma is suspected, a skin biopsy may be needed.