Detection

During an inspection of the skin, specific attention should be given to the size, shape, edges and color of each mole.  A handy tool in remembering these features is to think of the A-B-C-D-E rule:

• A - asymmetry - one half of the mole does not match the other half.

• B - border - the edges of the more are irregular, ragged, blurred or notched.

• C- color - the color over the mole is not the same. There may be differing shades of tan, brown or black and sometimes patches of red, blue or white.

• D - diameter - the mole is larger than 6mm (approximately 1/4 inch or about the size of a pencil eraser).

• E - elevation - though almost always present, a mole may also be flat.

• E - enlargement - a history of increase in the size of a mole is one of the most important signs.

Some moles may not fit the A-B-C-D-E criteria as described above. 

Other early warning signs of malignant melanoma may include:

• Any unusual sore, lump, blemish, marking or change in the way an area of skin looks or feels. 

• The skin may become scaly and crusty or begin oozing or bleeding.

• The skin may feel itchy, tender or painful.

• There may be redness, swelling, softening or hardening of the skin

Spots on the skin that are new or changing should be evaluated promptly. 

Show your doctor any area of skin that concerns you.  Remember that early detection and treatment can make the difference!    

Asymmetry— one half of the mole does not match the other half.

Border— the edges of the mole are irregular, ragged, blurred or notched.

Color— the color over the mole is not the same, there may be differing shades of tan, brown or black and sometimes patches of red, blue or white.

Diameter—There is a change in size, usually an increase. The mole is larger than 6mm (approximately ¼ inch or about the size of a pencil eraser).

A monthly self-examination is extremely important to become familiar with the pattern of moles, freckles and blemishes on one’s own skin so that one can easily detect new growths or other changes. 

• During an inspection (link to ABCDEs) of the skin, specific attention should be given to the size, shape, edges, and color of each mole.

• The self-examination of the skin should also include hard-to-see areas such as the mouth, scalp, ears, back of shoulders, lower back, buttocks and back of thighs.

• It is best to perform the examination, preferably once a month, in a well-lit room and in front of a full-length mirror.

• The use of a hand-held mirror or the assistance of a family member or friend is suggested for hard-to-see areas.         

In conjunction with a self-exam, you should be screened for melanoma by a medical professional.

Part of a routine cancer-related check-up should include an examination by a dermatologist or other health care professional qualified to diagnose skin cancer. 

The American Cancer Society recommends that people between the ages of 20-40 have a check-up every three years and people age 40 and older have one every year. 

Other risk factors (link to risk factors above) may warrant more frequent screenings.

The Joanna M. Nicolay Melanoma Foundation
...the voice for melanoma prevention, detection, care and cure.