Your regular self-skin-check guide
Know the ABCDEs of melanoma: The ABCDEs of melanoma are signs to look for during your regular self skin check. If you find a spot with one or more of these ABCDEs, see a dermatologist to have it checked out.
NORMAL
IRREGULAR
E EVOLUTION (or change): Keep track of any changes that happen over time, even if they seem small. Also check for new moles or spots. D DIAMETER: Measure the size of the mole with a ruler. A mole should not be bigger than 6 mm (millimeters) across (no bigger than a pencil eraser). A ASYMMETRY: Compare each half of the mole by visually dividing the mole in half. If one half does not match the other half, the mole is asymmetric. B BORDER: Look at the edges of the mole. A mole with an irregular or jagged border is concerning. C COLOR: Check the color of the mole. The mole should be a single color of brown or black. A mole with different colors or areas of pink, red, white or blue is concerning.
6
6
1
3
9
1
3
9
Knowing what to look for and performing regular self skin exams may help you become more aware of a mole that changes, a sore that just won’t heal or a new lump. If you find a spot that has one or more of the ABCDEs, make an appointment with a doctor to have it evaluated, preferably a board-certified medical dermatologist.
Looking for the ABCDEs in your regular self skin checks may help you find: l A mole or spot that changes l A sore that will not heal l A new lump l A mole that becomes itchy, painful, tender or bleeds l A dark area under or next to a fingernail or toenail l Redness or swelling around a mole l A “funny looking” or “ugly duckling” spot
28 Melanoma Patient and Caregiver Guide | Stages 2–3
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator