Melanoma pictures for self-examination Melanoma — a serious form of skin cancer — is often curable if you find it early. These melanoma pictures can help you determine what to look for.
Follow this self-examination guide, adapted from the American Academy of Dermatology's A-B-C-D guide, to determine if an unusual mole or suspicious spot on your skin may be melanoma. A: Asymmetrical shape Asymmetrical skin growths, in which one half is different from the other, may indicate melanoma. Here, the left side of the mole is dark and a little raised, whereas the right side is lighter in color and flat. B: Irregular border Melanomas tend to have borders that are vaguely defined. Growths with irregular, notched or scalloped borders need to be examined by a doctor. C: Changes in color Multiple colors or uneven distribution of color may indicate cancer. Generally, growths that are a uniform color are noncancerous. D: Diameter The large size of a skin growth may be an indication of cancer. A rapid increase in size over weeks or months may indicate cancer. Have your doctor check out any growth larger than the diameter of a pencil eraser (6 millimeters).
