Melanoma Symptoms
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Melanoma Symptoms
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that originates in the melanocytes, the cells that produce the pigment melanin and give color to your skin. For example, melanocytes give the tan, brown or black color to moles and freckles. The color of your eyes and hair are also produced by melanocytes. In many cases, the first observed melanoma symptom that appears is a change in the appearance of moles or other skin marks.
Most people are born with moles, and some people may have 40 or more moles on their body. Moles may also develop up through young adulthood or may fade away with time. In fact, moles are common form of benign (non-cancerous) skin tumors. The good news is that most moles are harmless and never become cancerous.
If melanoma begins to develop, there are certain identifiable changes in the appearance of moles that can help with early detection. The method, sometimes referred to as the ABCD rule, provides guidelines for distinguishing normal (benign) moles from potentially cancerous moles.
The A, B, C, D's of Moles
Most normal moles are a uniform color, size and shape. The primary symptom of melanoma is development of new skin growths or changes in existing growths, like moles. The ABCD rule is a way to recognize abnormal changes in a mole:
- A is for Asymmetry. A mole that has an irregular shape or two different looking halves.
- B is for Border. Irregular, blurred, rough, or notched edges may be signs of melanoma.
- C is for Color. Moles are normally black, brown, tan or even pink in color. But changes in the shade or distribution of color throughout the mole are not normal.
- D is for Diameter. Most normal moles are no bigger than a pencil eraser. Moles larger than 1/4 inch (6 millimeters) across may be suspect. However, some melanomas may be smaller than this.
Other Melanoma Symptoms
In addition to the ABCD rule, other potential symptoms of melanoma in a mole can include:
- Itching
- Oozing or bleeding
- Change in texture
- Scales
Not all melanomas affect moles. Melanoma may also change how the skin looks or feels. Affected patches of skin may become itchy or scaly and, in some cases, these symptoms may be accompanied by oozing or bleeding. Any changes in the texture or feel of skin, or any symptoms that cause pain, may be signs of precancerous conditions and should be examined by a dermatologist (skin doctor).
Where to Look for Melanoma
Melanomas may occur anywhere on the body. In men, melanomas more frequently develop on the back and shoulders. Women may be more likely to find melanoma on their legs.
Often, the areas that receive the most sun exposure are the most vulnerable. However, melanomas may develop in "hidden" places that receive little or no sun such as the palms of the hands, between the toes, underneath a nail, on the bottom of the feet, on the genitals, or wherever melanocytes occur. Melanocytes are also found in the eye and, in rare occurrences, ocular melanomas may develop.
If you notice changes in an existing mole, or develop a new mole with abnormal characteristics, it is important that you seek the opinion of a medical professional. Only a doctor can tell you if it is a symptom of melanoma or another condition.
NOTE: These symptoms may be attributed to a number of conditions other than cancer. It is important to consult with a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis.
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