The most serious of the 3 types of skin cancer, the other 2 being basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Malignant melanoma is a tumour of melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, and is due to long-term exposure to strong sunlight. There are an increasing number of new cases and deaths in the each year from this skin cancer.
Tumours usually develop on exposed skin but may occur anywhere on the body. A melanoma usually grows from an existing mole, which may enlarge, become lumpy, bleed or crust over, change colour, develop an irregular edge, turn into a scab, or become itchy. Occasionally, a melanoma develops in normal skin. The tumour often spreads to other parts of the body. Diagnosis is by a skin biopsy and the melanoma is removed surgically. Radiotherapy or anticancer drugs may also be necessary.
This disorder is a rare complication of general ANAESTHESIA caused, it is believed, by a combination of an inhalation anaesthetic (usually HALOTHANE) and a muscle-relaxant drug (usually succinycholine). A life-endangering rise in temperature occurs, with muscular rigidity the ?rst sign. TACHYCARDIA, ACIDOSIS and SHOCK usually ensue. About 1:20,000 patients having general anaesthesia suffer from this disorder, which progresses rapidly and is often fatal. Surgery and anaesthesia must be stopped immediately and appropriate corrective measures taken, including the intravenous administration of DANTROLENE. It is a dominantly inherited genetic condition; therefore, when a case is identi?ed it is most important that relatives are screened.... malignant hyperthermia
A rapid rise in body temperature to a dangerously high level, brought on by general anaesthesia. The condition is rare. In most cases, susceptibility is inherited; people suffering from certain muscle disorders may also be at risk. The patient’s body temperature rises soon after the anaesthetic is given. Emergency treatment and intensive care are needed.... hyperthermia, malignant
A raised, reddishbrown skin blemish which sometimes appears on the face or legs in early childhood (see naevus). Although they are usually harmless, an unsightly growth,or one suspected of being skin cancer, can be removed surgically.... melanoma, juvenile
a life-threatening syndrome seen after starting *antipsychotic medication. It is characterized by confusion, muscle rigidity, fever, pallor and sweating, urinary incontinence, and a high level of *creatine kinase. Its symptoms can appear similar to *catatonia. Treatment in a high-dependency unit with high-dose benzodiazepines and immediate cessation of antipsychotic drugs is usually indicated.... neuroleptic malignant syndrome
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