How to Diagnose Malignant Melanoma

Malignant melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. Melanoma is a tumor that is formed in the skin cells that produce pigment for skin, eyes and hair. Melanoma is often difficult to detect. This type of cancer is treatable if caught early. If left untreated or undetected it can spread into other parts of the body and potentially be fatal. Melanoma accounts for around 75 percent of skin cancer related deaths.

Instructions

Diagnosing Melanoma

• 1

  Be concerned about any mole, freckle or skin spot larger than an eraser on the end of a pencil. Large skin discolorations, particularly if they have grown or changed, should be checked out by a physician.

• 2

  Be wary of new and older skin spots. Just because you were born with a skin spot, birthmark or mole doesn't mean it is not concerning. Any spot or discoloration that changes must be examined.

• 3

  Perform regular skin checks to see if you notice any unusual skin spots or markings. This should include your entire body. Faces and shoulders are often the first place people consider as having the highest risk for skin cancer. It is also common on the feet and legs.

• 4

  See your Doctor for a skin check if you are suspicious of any mole or skin discoloration. If there is a sign of melanoma the doctor will most likely biopsy the area or refer you to a dermatologist.

• 5

  Biopsy the area in question with a dermatologist. The sample will be examined and tested at a lab. The results should be back within one to two weeks. The results will include: 1) A definitive answer on what the skin area consists of; 2) a stage of cancer if appropriate and 3) the estimated size or thickness of any diagnosed cancer. This information is necessary to determine the best treatment options for malignant melanoma.