Signs of Melanoma
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that begins in skin cells called melanocytes. These cells produce melanin, which gives skin its color. Melanoma can be found anywhere on the body, but it is most commonly found in areas that have had the most sun exposure, such as the face, arms, and legs. Knowing the signs of melanoma can help people spot it early and get treatment.
The Four Signs of Melanoma
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends looking for the following four signs of melanoma:
1. Asymmetry: The shape of one half of a mole or birthmark does not match the other.
2. Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.
3. Color: The color is not the same all over and may include shades of brown or black, or sometimes with patches of pink, red, white, or blue.
4. Diameter: The spot is larger than 6 millimeters across (about ¼ inch – the size of a pencil eraser), although melanomas can sometimes be smaller than this.
It's important to note that other skin lesions can have these same signs, so it's important to contact a dermatologist if any unusual spots are present. A dermatologist can properly diagnose and treat a melanoma.