When discovered and treated early, melanoma is almost 100 percent curable. If left untreated, this cancer may spread to other parts of the body and can be deadly. The National Cancer Institute reports that there were more than 68,000 new cases and 8,650 deaths in 2009. Everyone is at risk for melanoma, but for some, heredity plays a major role. First-degree relatives with melanoma (parents, siblings and children) significantly raises a person’s risk for developing melanoma.
ABCD’s of Melanoma
Skin contains a type of cell called a melanocyte that makes a pigment or color called melanin. Melanoma is a cancer that begins in these melanin-producing cells. Melanomas form in moles or birthmarks on the skin as well as in other pigmented tissues such as the eye and intestines.
The American Cancer Society recommends the use of the “ABCD” rule as a means of identifying melanoma early. “A” stands for asymmetry, meaning that one-half of the mole or birthmark does not match the other. “B” stands for border, meaning that the edges are uneven, ragged and blurred. “C” stands for color, which can vary. Often, early melanomas will appear dark brown or black, but they can also be pink, red, white or even blue. “D” represents diameter; melanomas will usually be larger than a 1/4 inch but can be larger or smaller.
Don’t Forget “E”
The American Academy of Dermatology has added one more letter to the rule and uses “ABCDE”. In this model, “E” stands for evolving, meaning a mole or birthmark is changing in size, shape or color. Further examination is also recommended for moles that look different from everything else.
Other Warning Signs
While the “ABCDE’s” apply to most melanomas, there are times when they do not fit all the rules. Other warning signs can include itching or tenderness of a mole or a sore that does not heal. A mole might scale or bleed. Color can spread outside the edges of a mole or redness and swelling might be present. Any changes that are noticed in a mole should be checked by a doctor because more thorough exams or tests might be needed.
About this Author
Living outside of Denver, Revkah Balingit has been writing health-related educational materials since 2003. Projects have included writing and editing educational pieces for patients and professionals on a variety of health care topics. Balingit is a certified legal nurse consultant, case manager and professional of utilization management.
