|
|
 |
|
|
|
Types of Cancer > Melanoma > Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Staging
|
|
| Signs and Symptoms of Melanoma and Its Early Diagnosis |
|
|
|
|
The Signs and Symptoms of Melanoma Skin Cancer and Diagnosing It Early
When looking for melanoma skin cancer, there are specific signs and symptoms that one can look for. The first step in diagnosing melanoma skin cancer early is to perform regular self-examinations of the moles on the body. A common rule for examining moles involves look at the asymmetry of the mole, the border, the color and the diameter. This rule is known as the ABCD rule.
The "A" in the ABCD rule stands for asymmetry. When looking at the mole¡¯s asymmetry, you want to make sure that both halves of the mole match. If one half of the mole does not match the other half of the mole, it is a possible sign of melanoma. The "B" stands for border. The borders of a melanoma will usually be irregular and may be blurred or ragged with notches. The "C" stands for color. With regular moles, the color is consistent throughout the mole. With melanoma, there will be variations in the color and there are sometimes even red, white or blue patches on the mole. The "D" of the ABCD rule stands for diameter. If the diameter of the mole is greater than 3 millimeters, it should be checked for melanoma.
It is important to understand that not all melanomas will possess these characteristics and that some melanoma will not have any of these symptoms. Because melanoma vary in appearance, make sure that you pay particular attention to each mole and that you make immediate note of any new growths or lesions as well as noting any changes in size, shape and color of existing moles.
If a suspicious area of the skin appears, further testing will be done to determine whether or not it is melanoma cancer. The first step in medically diagnosing the condition involves a physical exam. The doctor will examine the area and will ask questions about the history of the growth and will take note of the size, shape, color and condition. He will also check the body for any other suspicious moles or growths.
Melanoma has a high risk of spreading to other parts of the body. Once this happens, it is harder to treat the condition. Because of this, it is extremely important to check for any of the changes or symptoms mentioned earlier on a monthly basis by performing a monthly self exam. It is also important to schedule regular appointments with a physician so they can monitor any moles or growths on the skin. Early diagnosis will go a long way towards the successful treatment of melanoma.
|
|
|
|
| Author: | Robert Dale, Certified Medical Writer |
|
| Reviewer: | Jiade Jay Lu, M.D.
Diplomate, American Board of Radiology (Radiation Oncology) |
|
| Publish Date: November 6, 2004 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
