Melanoma Detection Tips

What to look for.

You should become familiar with your birthmarks, blemishes, and moles so you know what they look like and can spot changes. As you examine your skin, look for changes in the size, color, shape, or texture of a mark on your skin. Signs of skin cancer include:

Pay special attention to moles, especially one that has recently changed, bleeds, or itches. When looking at moles, keep in mind the ABCD’s of Melanoma Detection:

• Asymmetry – Does one-half of a mole look different from the other?
• Border Irregularity – Is the edge (border) of the mole ragged, notched or blurred
• Color – Does the mole have variety of hues and colors within the same lesion?
• Diameter – What is the size of the mole? While melanomas are usually greater than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser) in diameter when diagnosed, they can be smaller. If you notice a mole different from others, or which changes, itches, or bleeds even if it is smaller than 6 millimeters, you should see a dermatologist.

If you find a suspicious lesion. Any lesion that resembles one described above or that you believe may be skin cancer should be examined by a dermatologist immediately. Don’t delay in contacting a dermatologist; skin cancer has a high cure rate when detected early, and early treatment may help minimize the surgical scars. Most importantly, if you simply feel uncomfortable about a particular lesion on your skin, see a dermatologist immediately.