Skin cancer & precancers
Melanoma
Melanoma is a serious skin cancer that begins in pigment cells. It can spread to other parts of the body, but it is highly treatable when found early, which is why regular skin checks matter.
What is melanoma?
Melanoma is a skin cancer that starts in the cells that give skin its color. It is the most serious type of skin cancer because it can spread to other parts of the body. Found early, it is highly treatable.
The ABCDEs of melanoma
- A is for Asymmetry. One half of the spot is unlike the other half.
- B is for Border. The border is irregular, scalloped or poorly defined.
- C is for Color. Colors vary from one area to the next: shades of tan, brown or black, or areas of white, red or blue.
- D is for Diameter. Melanomas are usually larger than 6 millimeters, about the size of a pencil eraser, when found, but they can be smaller.
- E is for Evolving. The spot looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape or color.
Also watch for a spot that looks different from your other moles, a spot that itches, bleeds or is painful, a sore that does not heal, or a dark line under or around a nail.
Why early detection matters
An early melanoma can often be treated with surgery alone, in the office. When melanoma grows deeper into the skin or spreads, treatment becomes more complex. Checking your skin regularly, and seeing a dermatologist about any new or changing spot, helps find melanoma early. Our skin self-check guide shows you how.
How it is treated
Treatment depends on how deep the melanoma is, whether it has spread, and your overall health.
- Surgical excision. The cancer is removed along with a margin of normal-looking skin, which is then checked under a microscope.
- Mohs surgery. For some early melanomas on the head, neck or hands, where there is little extra skin, a form of Mohs surgery may be an option.
- More advanced melanoma. Additional testing and treatments may be needed, coordinated with other specialists.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Talk with your provider about what is right for you.
Sources American Academy of Dermatology: ABCDEs of melanoma (opens in new tab) · American Academy of Dermatology: Melanoma signs and symptoms (opens in new tab) · American Academy of Dermatology: Melanoma diagnosis and treatment (opens in new tab) · American Academy of Dermatology: What is Mohs surgery? (opens in new tab)