Changes in a mole, coloured skin spot, or other skin growth
Most moles will gradually change over time. They may get bigger, grow a hair, become more raised, get lighter in colour, or fade away. Many people develop new moles until about age 40.
Early detection and treatment of skin cancer can prevent complications. Early signs of melanoma (a serious type of skin cancer) involve a change in a mole or other skin growth. The ABCDEs of melanoma skin cancer
are:
- Asymmetry. One half doesn't match the appearance of the other half.
- Border irregularity. The edges are ragged, notched, or blurred.
- Colour. The colour (pigmentation) is not uniform. Shades of tan, brown, and black are present. Dashes of red, white, and blue add to a mottled appearance.
- Diameter. The size of the mole is greater than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser). Any growth of a mole should be evaluated.
- Evolution. There is a change in the size, shape, symptoms (such as itching or tenderness), surface (especially bleeding), or colour.
Early detection of skin cancer includes regular skin self-examinations
- Check your skin, scalp, and skin growths for any changes in colour, shape, size, or appearance.
- Check to see if any area of your skin or scalp has not healed after an injury.
- If you notice a suspicious skin growth, have your doctor look at it. Most skin growths can be removed, which will keep them from growing and damaging the surrounding skin or other deeper tissues or spreading to other areas of the body.
Because skin cancer develops in moles and coloured skin spots, it is important to be safe and have any changes checked by your doctor. Early detection and treatment of skin cancer can prevent problems.
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS | Last Updated: August 29, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology | |
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