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I D Cancer Center
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  • Chilhood Melanoma

Childhood Melanoma Treatment | I D Cancer Center Lucknow

Childhood Melanoma is a rare but serious skin cancer that develops from melanocytes—the cells responsible for skin pigmentation. While melanoma is far more common in adults, it can occur in children and adolescents and requires early detection, specialized evaluation, and timely treatment for the best outcomes.


What Is Childhood Melanoma?

Melanoma occurs when pigment-producing cells grow abnormally and spread to surrounding tissues. In children, it may appear differently than in adults and may not follow typical ABCDE rules.

Childhood melanoma can be classified into:

  • Conventional Melanoma – resembles adult melanoma

  • Spitzoid Melanoma – common in children, may appear pink or red

  • Acral Melanoma – occurs on palms, soles, or under nails

  • Congenital Melanoma – extremely rare; present at birth

Common Symptoms of Childhood Melanoma

Parents should watch for:

Suspicious Skin Changes

  • A mole that changes rapidly in size, shape, or color

  • A new lesion that looks unusual

  • A pink, red, or skin-colored bump that grows quickly

Warning Signs

  • Bleeding or oozing from a mole

  • Itching, pain, or irritation

  • A mole that looks different from others (“ugly duckling sign”)

  • A dark streak under a fingernail or toenail

Lesions in Sun-Protected Areas

Children may develop melanoma even in areas not exposed to sun.

Risk Factors

Melanoma in children is linked to:

  • Light skin, freckles, or blond/red hair

  • Family history of melanoma

  • Previous radiation exposure

  • Immune system weakness

  • Atypical/dysplastic moles

  • Large congenital nevi (birthmarks)

  • Frequent sunburns or intense UV exposure

However, many children develop melanoma without any obvious risk factors.

How Childhood Melanoma Is Diagnosed

I D Cancer Center follows a detailed, pediatric-friendly evaluation process:

1. Skin Examination

Dermoscopic evaluation of moles or skin lesions.

2. Biopsy

Essential for diagnosis:

  • Excisional biopsy

  • Punch biopsy (selected cases)

  • Pathology and immunohistochemistry

3. Imaging (If Needed)

  • Ultrasound

  • MRI or CT scan

  • PET-CT for advanced disease

4. Lymph Node Evaluation

  • Sentinel lymph node biopsy may be required for thicker lesions

5. Molecular Testing

For advanced melanoma:

  • BRAF, NRAS, and other mutations

  • Helps guide targeted therapy

Treatment Options at I D Cancer Center

Treatment depends on stage, tumor subtype, and child’s age.

1. Surgery

Primary treatment for most melanomas:

  • Wide local excision

  • Sentinel lymph node biopsy

  • Lymph node dissection (if required)

2. Immunotherapy

Highly effective in advanced or metastatic melanoma:

  • PD-1 inhibitors

  • Combination immunotherapy

3. Targeted Therapy

For tumors with specific genetic mutations:

  • BRAF inhibitors

  • MEK inhibitors

4. Radiotherapy

Used selectively for:

  • Lymph node involvement

  • Brain metastasis

  • High-risk recurrence

Technologies at I D Cancer Center:

  • IMRT / VMAT

  • IGRT for precision

  • SRS/SBRT for brain or isolated lesions

5. Chemotherapy

Used rarely; reserved for specific advanced cases.

6. Supportive Care

  • Wound care after surgery

  • Sun protection counseling

  • Psychological and emotional support

  • Guidance for skin monitoring at home

Prognosis

Prognosis depends on:

  • Tumor thickness (Breslow depth)

  • Ulceration

  • Lymph node involvement

  • Response to therapy

Early-stage melanoma in children is highly treatable with excellent outcomes.

Sun Safety & Prevention

Parents should ensure:

  • Daily sunscreen use (SPF 30+)

  • Protective clothing & hats

  • Avoiding peak sunlight hours

  • Educating children about skin protection

  • Yearly skin check-ups for high-risk children