The ABCDE’s of Skin Cancer/Melanoma
Everyone has some risk factors for skin cancer/melanoma, and skin self-checks should be a regular part of your overall wellness routine (in addition to Full Skin Surveys done by a medical professional). In order to know what you are looking for though, it is important that you are familiar with the ABCDE’s of Skin Cancer/Melanoma.
If you notice any warning signs, we strongly recommend that you contact your dermatologist and schedule an appointment for evaluation.
A – Asymmetry
If you draw a line through the middle, the two halves do not match. This is a warning sign for Melanoma.
B – Border
A benign mole has smooth, even borders, while the borders of a malignant melanoma tend to be uneven.
C – Color
A mole that is a variety of colors is another melanoma warning sign. A number of different shades of brown, tan or black could appear. A melanoma may also become red, white or blue.
D – Diameter
Benign moles usually have a smaller diameter than malignant ones. Melanomas usually are larger in diameter than the eraser on your pencil tip (¼ inch or 6mm); however 1/3 are smaller when first detected.
E – Evolving
Be on the alert when a mole starts to evolve or change in any way. When a mole is evolving, see a doctor. Any change — in size, shape, color, elevation, or another trait, or any new symptom such as bleeding, itching or crusting — points to danger.