Melanoma is a serious type of skin cancer that if left untreated, can potentially spread to other organs in the body and cause serious complications. The common signs to look out for would be a changing pigmented lesion or mole. These can be easily remembered as the ABCDE of a changing mole:
A: Asymmetrical shape or pigment pattern
B: Border that is irregular
C: Colour changes within the mole or a mole with different colours
D: Diameter of over 6mm but some early melanomas may be smaller
E: Evolving mole with change in size, shape or colour, or Elevation of mole, although early melanomas may be flat
Other not to be missed signs would be a non-healing wound or sore.
It is also important to assess your risk factors for developing a melanoma or other skin cancers. Risk factors that would put you at higher risk would include:
Being older >60 years
Lots of previous sun exposure and a history of sunburns
Previous history of skin cancer including melanoma
Previous history of pre-cancers such as dysplastic naevi or actinic keratoses
Family history of skin cancer including melanoma
You are taking medicines that suppresses your immune system
You have multiple >100 moles on your body
In summary, if you are considered high risk and have a changing mole or skin lesion, please see your Dermatologist early to have it assessed in detail. A regular skin screen every 12 months is recommended to ensure all your moles are fine. Skin cancers are very treatable if caught early.
