Signs of Serious Skin Cancer

There are many types of skin cancer, most of which can be treated effectively if the cancer is caught early enough. The most severe and dangerous type of skin cancer is called melanoma. Melanoma can occur suddenly, and can spread very rapidly, making treatment time sensitive. It is important to know the signs of this serious type of skin cancer so that you can receive treatment quickly.

Size

• If you have a mole larger than the end of a pencil eraser, it should be checked by a doctor right away. Many melanomas appear as large moles.

Irregular Edges

• If a mole appears to have irregular edges, which can make the edges seem scalloped or choppy, this can indicate melanoma.

Speckled Appearance

• Moles that looked speckled or splotchy, containing many colors, can indicate serious melanoma skin cancer.

Oddly Colored

• Oddly colored moles that look bluish or black should be checked by a doctor. Melanoma can commonly appear to be bluish or black.

Bleeding

• Any time a mole begins to bleed or ooze, it could indicate serious melanoma skin cancer.