What does SSMM mean in ONCOLOGY

Superficial Spreading Malignant Melanoma (SSMM) is an aggressive form of skin cancer. It is the most common type of melanoma and can spread quickly if not treated early.

Superficial spreading melanomas typically appear on areas on the body that are often exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, chest, arms, hands, back and legs.

The most common sign of SSMM is a change in a mole or other pigmented area on the skin such as a spot or blemish. Other symptoms may include itching, pain or tenderness in a new or existing mole; an open sore that bleeds or oozes; or discoloration such as redness around a mole.

Yes, SSMM can be effectively treated if caught early enough. This includes surgical removal of affected areas of the skin as well as additional treatments like radiation therapy and chemotherapy depending on the severity of your case.

In some cases there can be long-term effects from having SSMM such as scarring from surgery, discoloration in areas where melanin has been removed by surgery, psychological effects like depression or anxiety due to treatment/diagnosis etc. It is important to speak with your doctor about any potential long-term effects you may experience following treatment for this condition.