Q. How is melanoma skin cancer staged?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Skin cancer (melanoma) is staged using the TNM system:

T stands for tumor size and thickness. It's ranked from 0-4, with 0 being normal skin and 4 being the largest tumor size possible.

N stands for nodes, or lymph nodes, which are small glands throughout the body. Nodes are tested to see if they contain cancer cells. They are ranked from 0 to 3 with zero meaning that no cancer has spread to nearby nodes and three showing that there is extensive spread of melanoma to adjacent lymph nodes or other organs.

M stands for metastasis or whether it has spread beyond its original location. The levels range in severity from 0 (no metastasis present) to 1 (metastases present).

Once all these three parameters have been assessed, doctors can assign a stage based on those scores—stage I is considered low risk while stages III and IV indicate more advanced disease which requires more aggressive treatment options. Knowing what stage your melanoma is at will give you an idea of how severe your case is and help you plan out further steps accordingly.

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Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

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