Melanoma

Melanoma is the most dangerous and aggressive form of skin cancer. It accounts for the second most deaths related to a human cancer.  It is the most common malignancy in young women ages 25-29 and second most common in women ages 30-35…and the incidence continues to rise. It is potentially curable with a very early detection and treatment, however a late diagnosis of melanoma carries a very poor prognosis. Melanoma is variable in presentation, however the ABCDs are typically a good rule to follow in terms of a suspicious lesion. Early signs include increase in size, shape, or change in color. Risk factors include fair skin, multiple atypical moles, a personal or family history of melanoma, or history of a blistering sunburn.  Additionally, studies have shown that people who use tanning beds have approximately 4x higher chance of developing melanoma.  Thus, it is very important to always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen and receive an annual skin cancer screening.

A- Asymmetry (one half of the lesion doesn’t match the other half)

B- Borders  (irregular shaped)

C- Color (varying colors or very dark in color)

D- Diameter (> 6 mm)