A B C’s
More on the deadly “E” changeAsymmetry in shape – one half unlike the other half
Border is irregular – edges are scalloped, notched or blurred
Color is mottled and not uniform – shades of brown, black, gray, red and white
Diameter – the size of the mole is usually large: bigger than a pencil eraser
Elevation is almost always present, but may also be flat
Enlargement – a history of increase in size is one the most important signs
When watching for the ABCDE’s for melanoma if you see the “E” change, you should act immediately.
Remember “E” means elevation-enlargement growth upwards. The beginning of a bump or thickness increase in a mole, spot, blemish, freckle or birthmark, even if the increase is smll, often signifies a melanoma that is entering a dangerous phase.
When the thickness of a melanoma exceeds 1 mm (4 index cards squeezed together), the chance of internal spread starts to increase.
As it is growing higher, it is also penetrating deeper down, towards the lymph and blood vessels in the dermis, allowing it to spread to other parts of the body.
Seek a dermatologist, a specialist in skin cancers immediately.