What Are The 5 Warning Signs of Melanoma?
Increase your chances of getting the cure for the least common skin cancer, Melanoma. Understand the ABCDEs of melanoma and proceed with smart decisions with this guide.
Skin cancer is a disease that occurs when skin cells grow out of control and it is one of the most common types of cancer. Overexposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun, tanning beds or lamps is the main cause of skin cancer.
The three main types of skin cancer are:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
- Melanoma
Melanoma is considered one of the most dangerous forms of skin cancer and it most likely spreads to the other parts of the body if not treated on time.
The ABCDES of Melanoma: 5 Warning Signs You Must Know
The first five letters of the alphabet are the guide to help you recognise 5 warning signs of melanoma.
A Stands For Assymetry
Mostly melanoma is asymmetrical. The two halves of the moles won’t match and you can check this by drawing a line between a mole. It can differ from a round to an oval and symmetrical common mole. Common moles tend to be symmetrical. Symmetry can be a sign of harmless growth, on the other hand, asymmetry may indicate the presence of melanoma.
B Stands For Border
Melanoma borders are often uneven and may have scalloped or noticed edges. Common moles have smoother and more even borders. In melanoma border is often irregular and jagged unless well-defined borders are found in common moles. You can consider this as a key indicator of potential melanoma because it explains that the mole is growing in an unexplained manner.
C Stands For Colour (Red Flag)
Consider this sign in a red flag category because it suggests that the mole is undergoing abnormal cellular changes. Melanoma often presents with multiple colours within the same mole, shades of brown, black, pink, red or white can be included. Common moles are typically one uniform colour and the usual colours are brown or tan. Your dermatologist needs to pay attention to these signs and you must visit for check-ups if you notice the colour change.
D Stands Diameter or Dark
The large size of the mole and a mole larger than ¼ inch needs healthcare professional’s attention. While moles stay smaller, melanoma can grow rapidly. The exceeded size of the mole demands special attention. A large diameter in a mole signals an abnormality in growth. Also, melanoma moles can become darker over time and turn deep brown or black. Any sudden change is a warning sign and you must not ignore it.
E Stands For Evolving
Evolving refers to changes in the appearance of a mole over time and this is one of the most important indicators of melanoma. An evolving mole may change in size, shape, colour or texture. This evolution often happens gradually or more rapidly. This indicates that mole is not stable and different from common moes that remain the same throughout life.
Itching, bleeding or raised moles are the visible signs. Borders that become more irregular are the signs that the mole is evolving. Any sudden change in common moles demands healthcare professionals’ attention.
Can You Visit A Dermatologist For Skin Cancer Check-ups?
Yes, one can visit a dermatologist for skin cancer check-ups. Dermatologists are trained in skin cancer screening and can perform close examination for detection of skin cancer.
Regular check-ups and tests can help detect skin cancer like melanoma at times and you can get early treatment. If not treated on time melanoma can create issues. The dermatologist will examine your entire skin, including your scalp, ears, palms and other parts of the body that are not in your reach.
You must book an appointment when you notice unusual changes in your moles, like size, shape, colour and diameter. You can take photos of that particular area of concern this will help you monitor changes.
Discuss these changes with your dermatologist and let them know if any other symptoms and signs are present. They will conduct tests and examine the skin. They will let you know if cancer is present and the type (if yes). Treatment options will be discussed afterwards.
Conclusion
You must not underestimate the early examination of skin cancer because the treatment can be provided on time and you will get better results. Melanoma is the least common and dangerous type of skin cancer. It can spread to the other parts of the body so it is important to visit a dermatologist on time.
Unusual changes in moles like changes in shape, size, colour or diameter demand dermatologists for skin cancer. Visit your nearby clinic and get expert advice.
