Malignant melanoma, the most advanced stage of melanoma, develops from mutations to melanocytes. These specialized cells can be identified by the production of melanin, a black pigment protein. Melanocytes are abundant within the skin but are also located within the brain, intestinal tract, the hair follicles and eyes. The majority of metastatic melanoma cases occur within the skin. Metastatic melanoma growth within the skin can lead to a number of symptoms.
Abnormal Skin Growths
Patients with advanced metastatic melanoma beginning in the skin will develop abnormal skin growths. Since melanocytes secrete pigment proteins, the abnormal growths often range in color, which may include black, brown, red, white or blue, according to the Fox Chase Cancer Center. The mole may grow large, with an irregular and abnormal border, and often develops into a wound or sore that fails to heal correctly. Although this growth may be the most obvious sign of metastatic melanoma, cancer cells in this cancer have also spread to other tissues, which leads to harmful side effects.
Lymph Node Swelling
A common initial site of melanoma spread is to the lymph nodes---small structures located throughout the body that house immune cells---so patients with advanced metastatic melanoma often display extensive cancer growth in multiple lymph nodes, according to CancerHelp UK. As a result, the lymph nodes grow in size and mat together, sticking to the skin. Depending on the lymph nodes affected, patients may experience pain as nodes deep within the body press against nerves and cause irritation, or they may notice abnormal lumps due to swelling of lymph nodes close to the skin.
Lung Damage
Patients with advanced metastatic melanoma may also suffer from decreased lung capacity, due to lung damage caused by cancer spreading. WomensHealthMatters.com explains that metastatic melanoma can readily spread into lung tissue, leading to tumor growth that inhibits proper lung functioning. The cancer growth may take up space within the air sacs of the lungs, leading to a decreased lung capacity, or may prevent air from flowing into the air sacs by blocking the airways. Patients with lung metastases often develop shortness of breath and fatigue easily during physical activity. Cancer growth in the lungs may require surgery or radiation therapy to stop melanoma growth, as well as analgesic medication to relieve chest pain due to cancer.
