Could changes in a mole be a warning sign of skin cancer?
Most of us have moles on our body; however, you may have heard that the more moles you have the more at risk you may be for skin cancer. This is why it’s so important that you are constantly monitoring your moles so that you know when suspicious changes occur. Even if your moles look fine, it’s always best to play it safe and to visit our Delray Beach, FL, dermatologist Dr. Yvette Tivoli once a year for a routine skin cancer screening.
Learn Your ABCDEs
No, we aren’t talking about the alphabet exactly, but we are talking about this helpful mnemonic device to help you evaluate moles on your own to see whether it warrants seeing a dermatologist for further follow-up.
Most healthy moles stay relatively the same in size, color and appearance, so any changes should raise a red flag. The ABCDEs refers to the warning signs of melanoma and it stands for,
- Asymmetry: Draw an invisible line down the mole…are both halves equal in shape and size? Healthy moles are symmetrical while melanoma often isn’t.
- Border: Does the mole have a clearly defined border or are the edges ragged and irregular? If it’s the latter this could be a sign of a cancerous or precancerous lesion.
- Color: Moles can range in shades of tan to dark brown; however, moles that develop multiple colors could also be a sign of cancer.
- Diameter: Most healthy moles are smaller than the size of a pencil eraser.
- Evolving: Moles stay relatively the same and don’t change much throughout the years so if you notice any visible changes in a mole it’s best to have it looked at by our Delray Beach, FL, dermatology team.
Know the Other Warning Signs
While these are some common signs of melanoma, they aren’t the only ones. Plus, we also have to keep an eye out for non-melanoma skin cancers as well. Other warning signs include,
- Change in the texture of a mole (e.g. crusting; bleeding)
- A flat mole that’s suddenly become raised
- The color of a mole spreads to surrounding skin
- You notice a scar-like lesion or a growth with a depression or dent in the center
- Clear or skin-colored bumps that may appear shiny or smooth
- There is itching, pain or tenderness around the mole
No matter your risk factor for skin cancer it’s best for everyone to get routine skin cancer screenings each year. If it’s time for your screening, or if you notice changes in your skin that have you concerned, call Atlantic Derm in Delray Beach, FL, today at (561) 802-7546 for an appointment.