What Does the Start of Melanoma Look Like?
Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. If you have any moles that you think might be cancerous, it is important to have them checked out by your doctor right away.
If you are wondering, “What does the start of melanoma look like?” here are some of the most common melanoma warning signs, following a pattern of ABCDE.
A – Asymmetry
Most moles are regular in shape, but cancerous moles are typically asymmetrical. This means that the size and shape of one side of the mole does not match the other side.
B – Borders Are Irregular
The border of a normal, healthy mole will usually appear smooth and even. A cancerous mole, on the other hand, may have irregular borders. Look for ragged or blurred edges.
C – Color is Uneven
For the most part, typical moles are similarly colored throughout. If you have melanoma, you may notice that the color of your mole varies from one part to another. The pigment from the mole may also bleed into the surrounding skin.
D – Diameter
Cancerous moles tend to be much larger than other moles. Although melanomas can still be small sometimes, most are larger than a pea. This equates to at least 6 millimeters or a quarter of an inch across the largest point.
E – Evolution
Most moles stay roughly the same size throughout your life. However, if you have melanoma, you will likely experience rapid changes to your moles. Keep an eye out for any changes that take place in a short period, like over a few weeks or months.
Checking Your Skin for Melanoma
To protect against skin cancer, knowing what Melanoma looks like is crucial. Moreover, to catch melanoma warning signs right away, it is important to monitor your skin regularly.
This will alert you to any changes that take place so that you can notify your dermatologist or another doctor right away. Although it is possible for melanoma to turn deadly, the prognosis is typically positive if you can remove the affected mole quickly.
Melanoma and Skin Cancer Removal Houston TX
Dr. Michael J. Streitmann is a board-certified plastic surgeon based in the Houston area. He can assist you in identifying and removing cancerous moles.
We provide some proprietary skin care products as well to help you protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays, keep it moisturized and nourished, and improve your complexion.
We welcome you to reach out to our office locations in Houston and Conroe, Texas at any time to learn more about melanoma removal. We’ll take a look at any moles on your body and advise you of any next steps you need to take if any.
Contact us at (713) 667-4600 to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Michael J. Streitmann to have your moles checked out.
Image Credit: Getty/ LightFieldStudios