Melanomas can appear anywhere on your body, but the back, legs, arms and face are the most common locations.
The first sign of a melanoma is often the appearance of a new mole or a change in the appearance of an existing mole. Normal moles are usually a single colour, round or oval in shape and are not larger than 6mm (1/4 inch) in diameter. Melanomas are more likely to have an irregular shape and be more than one colour, and they are often larger than 6mm (1/4 inch) in diameter. A melanoma may also be itchy and may bleed.
A good way to tell the difference between a normal mole and a melanoma is to use the ABCDE checklist:
- A stands for asymmetrical - melanomas have two very different halves and are an irregular shape.
- B stands for (irregular) border - unlike a normal mole, melanomas have a notched or ragged border.
- C stands for (two or more) colours - melanomas will be a mix of two or more colours.
- D stands for (large) diameter - unlike most moles, melanomas are larger than 6mm (1/4 inch) in diameter.
- E stands for elevated or enlarged – the mole is raised above the surface. And it is often the case that while the original mole stays the same size the area around or under it appears to spread or swell.
If you are concerned about one of your moles, see your GP as soon as possible.
Want to know more?
