Early Warning Signs of Melanoma
Melanoma is one of the most serious types of skin cancer. It is important to be aware of the potential early warning signs of melanoma in order to spot it early and get it treated quickly.
Asymmetry – One of the most common early warning signs of melanoma is when moles or other spots on the skin appear to be asymmetrical. If you draw an imaginary line down the middle of the mole, the two sides should be roughly the same. If they are not, this could indicate a potential problem.
Border – Melanomas usually have uneven, jagged, or notched borders. Normal moles tend to have a more uniform shape and edges.
Color – Many melanomas have more than one color, including shades of brown, black, tan, and even red, blue, or white. Any moles that have a variety of colors should be checked out by a doctor.
Diameter – Most melanomas are usually larger than 6 millimeters in diameter, or about the size of a pencil eraser. Smaller moles may still be cause for concern, so it's important to get any suspicious moles checked out by a doctor.
Evolution – Melanomas can change shape, size, and color over time. It is important to be aware of any changes to moles or other spots on the skin, and to report them to a doctor.
If you find any of these warning signs of melanoma, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible so that the condition can be properly assessed and treated, if necessary. Early detection is key to a successful outcome.