When melanoma cells spread from the original site to another part of the body, this is called metastasis.
Where these metastases are found makes a difference. That is why doctors use different names.
Metastasis in a lymph node
Melanoma cells can end up in lymph nodes near the original melanoma.
Sometimes it involves a very small metastasis that is only found when the lymph node is examined under a microscope. This is called a micrometastasis.
A macrometastasis is larger and can, for example, be noticed even before surgery because a lymph node is enlarged or because the metastasis becomes visible during examination.
Both mean that melanoma cells have been found in a lymph node. The difference lies mainly in the size of the metastasis and how it is detected.
Satellite metastases
These are small spots of melanoma cells in or under the skin, close to the site where the original melanoma was located.
They are therefore located in the immediate vicinity of the melanoma.
In-transit metastases
Melanoma cells can also spread through the lymphatic vessels and form a new tumor deposit on the way to a lymph node.
Such a metastasis is located in or under the skin between the original melanoma and the nearest lymph nodes.
Metastases further in the body
Melanoma cells can also spread to more distant parts of the body.
These can be, for example, other parts of the skin, more distant lymph nodes, or organs such as the lungs, liver, or brain.
What is most important to know?
Metastases can therefore be found in various places: close to the original melanoma, in lymph nodes, or further in the body.
The location where melanoma cells are found helps doctors determine how extensive the melanoma is and what follow-up is needed.
Not everyone with melanoma develops metastases.
Is anything in this explanation still unclear?
