Very few moles become malignant melanomas but it’s best to see your GP if you notice any changes. If a melanoma is picked up early, it’s very likely to be cured.
Melanomas usually start as a strange looking mole – your doctor would call it ‘abnormal’. It can be difficult to tell what is abnormal so you can use the following checklist to help you. It’s called the ABCD list.
- Asymmetry – Ordinary moles are usually even in shape all the way round. Melanomas are likely to have an irregular or asymmetrical shape.
- Border – Moles usually have a smooth-looking edge. Melanomas are more likely to have jagged edges.
- Colour – Moles are normally one colour – brown or black. But melanomas can have different shades of brown mixed with black, red, pink, white or even a bluish tint.
- Diameter (length from one side to the other) – Moles are normally no bigger than the blunt end of a pencil (about 6 mm across). Melanomas tend to grow bigger than this.
Normal moles can be raised up from the skin and may sometimes be hairy so don’t worry if yours are like this. Some moles can get itchy, crusty or start bleeding. These are less common signs of melanoma but it’s important to let your doctor know if you have them.
