Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. It will almost always have warning signs. Melanoma in its early stage is almost always curable.
The first five letters of the alphabet are a guide to the early warning signs of melanoma.
A
Asymmetry – One half
is unlike the other half.
is unlike the other half.
B
Border – An irregular, scalloped
or poorly defined border.
or poorly defined border.
C
Color – Is varied from one area to another,
has shades of tan, brown or black, or
is sometimes white, red or blue.
has shades of tan, brown or black, or
is sometimes white, red or blue.
D
Diameter – Melanomas are usually greater
than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser)
when diagnosed, but they can be smaller.
than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser)
when diagnosed, but they can be smaller.
E
Evolving – A mole or skin lesion
that looks different from the rest or is
changing in size, shape or color.
that looks different from the rest or is
changing in size, shape or color.
Examine your skin once a month using your ABCDEs and contact your physician if you find anything abnormal. To make an appointment call (541) 382-4900.
