What does early signs of melanoma look like?

What does early signs of melanoma look like?

The first sign of melanoma is typically a new spot on the skin, or a change in the size, shape or color of an existing mole. The ABCDE method may help you determine whether an abnormal skin growth may be melanoma: Asymmetry: The mole has an irregular shape. Border: The edge is not smooth, but irregular or notched.

How is melanoma skin cancer diagnosed?

Spread of pigment from the border of a spot into surrounding skin. Redness or a new swelling beyond the border of the mole. Change in sensation, such as itchiness, tenderness, or pain. Change in the surface of a mole – scaliness, oozing, bleeding, or the appearance of a lump or bump.

Can melanoma be round?

Its border is shaped like an oval with a tapered end. Its diameter is much larger than the diameter of the moles around it. Neither melanoma is round.

Can melanoma be detected by a blood test?

Blood tests. Blood tests aren't used to diagnose melanoma, but some tests may be done before or during treatment, especially for more advanced melanomas. Doctors often test blood for levels of a substance called lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) before treatment.