The early warning signs of melanoma or any other form of skin cancer are most often detected by unusual moles, markings, sores, blemishes, or lumps on the skin. Changes in the appearance or texture of the skin in a certain part could also be an indicator of skin conditions or disease.

Recognizing the early warning signs of melanoma

You can follow the ABCDE rule to determine whether a mole or spot is one of the early warning signs of melanoma and if it should be a cause of concern.

A – Asymmetry
Both halves of the mole or spot don’t match or differ in appearance.

B – Border
The edges are irregular, scalloped, or blurred.

C – Color
The color of the mole is not uniform; it may have a mix of patches of color that could be brown, black, pink, red, blue, or white. A normal mole has an even color that is usually brown, black, or tan.

D – Diameter
The spot is larger than the size of a pencil eraser. However, some melanomas can be smaller. Moles that are present from birth are most often less than 6mm in diameter.

E – Evolving
The spot or mole changes in shape, size, or appearance. Normally moles are round or oval and are either raised or flat. Moles, most often, stay the same in shape, size, and color once they have developed. Some may even fade away over time.

It should be noted that not all melanomas follow these guidelines, so if you notice anything unusual about your skin, it is essential that you contact your doctor for advice.

Other early warning signs of melanoma

1. Sores that don’t heal

2. The color of a spot or mole spreads from the border into the surrounding skin

3. Swelling or redness that occurs beyond the edges of the mole

4. Change in sensation near the mole such as itchiness, pain, or tenderness

5. Changes in the texture or surface of the mole such as scales, bleeding, or oozing

6. A lump or bump appearing on the surface of the mole

7. A spot on the skin that looks different than other spots. This is also known as the ugly duckling sign

It should be noted that some types of melanoma can occur in other parts of the body other than the skin, such as under the toenails or fingernails, in the iris, the colored part of the eye, or inside the mouth. Hence, it is essential that you report any new or suspicious spots that occur in these areas to your doctor.

Although most people have moles that are usually harmless, it is important to know and recognize the early warning signs of melanoma. Any changes in your skin should be reported to the doctor right away.