Metastatic melanoma, begins as a mole or other spot on the skin, according to the Mayo Clinic. When the melanoma is not caught and treated early, it metastasizes, or spreads to other parts of the body, such as lymph nodes and internal organs. The American Academy of Dermatology states that when melanoma is caught right away, it has a very high cure rate. The symptoms of metastatic cancer depend on the area to which it has spread.
Skin Changes
Most melanoma cases can be cured if caught early enough, but many people ignore or don't notice changes to their skin that indicate the presence of melanoma. According to the Mayo Clinic these changes include scaliness, itchiness, the spread of pigment and oozing or bleeding. When a mole or skin lesion progresses to melanoma, it appears to have an irregular border, becomes asymmetrical, changes color, grows larger in diameter than a pencil eraser and evolves over time. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a yearly skin check with a dermatologist so that a changing mole can be examined for the development of melanoma.
Pain
When melanoma metastasizes to other parts of a person's body, it can cause pain in the places it has spread by putting pressure on the nerves, bones or internal organs, states the Mayo Clinic. Melanoma can spread to the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, brain, bones, as well as to other areas. Sometimes, it is not until a patient seeks treatment for the pain that the malignant melanoma is discovered, notes the American Cancer Society. Chemotherapy and radiation can help relieve the pain while attempting to shrink the tumor or tumors, says the Mayo Clinic.
Gastrointestinal Disturbances
According to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, metastatic melanoma interferes with the body's immune system and can often result in problems with digestion. This can include diarrhea, nausea, constipation and decreased appetite. These problems can lead to weight loss and should be addressed by the patient's doctor. Treatment that helps reinforce the immune system response to the cancer can help alleviate these symptoms.
