- Mohs
- Total Body Exams
- ABCD’s of Melanoma
- How does a mole change?
The ABCD’s of Moles & Melanoma
Most people have a number of brownish spots on their skin – freckles, birthmarks, moles. Almost all such spots are normal, but some may be skin cancers. Key warning signs of melanoma are shown below. Be alert to irregularities in shape, edges, color, and size. The ABCD’s of melanoma are as follows: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variability, and Diameter larger than a pencil eraser.
Asymmetry: Most early melanomas are asymmetrical: a line through the middle would not create matching halves. Common moles are round and symmetrical.
Border: The borders of early melanomas are often uneven and may have scalloped or notched edges. Common moles have smoother, more even borders.
Color: Common moles usually are a single shade of brown. Varied shades of brown, tan, or black are often the first sign of melanoma. As melanomas progress, the colors red, white and blue may appear.
Diameter: Early melanomas tend to grow larger than common moles – generally to at least the size of a pencil eraser (about 6mm, or 1/4 inch, in diameter).
If you detect any of these warning signs, see a Board Certified Dermatologist promptly. Make an appointment today.
Beverly Hills Dermatology Consultants
433 N. Camden Drive, Suite 805 Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Tel: 310-550-7661 | Fax: 310-550-1920
