27/09/2023
Skin cancer symptoms
This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policyby
Maurie Markman, MD, President, Medicine & Science.
THIS PAGE WAS UPDATED ON JUNE 1, 2022.
Because many skin cancers develop where they can be seen, there is a good chance of catching them early. Regular examination of the skin for any new or unusual growths, or changes in existing moles is critical.
Patients who find anything suspicious should discuss it with a primary care physician, a dermatologist (skin doctor) or a health care professional who is qualified to diagnose skin cancer.
What does skin cancer look like?
A variety of skin changes may indicate skin cancer or precancerous conditions.
In addition to looking for the specific signs below, also be on the lookout for the following mole irregularities (using what's known as the ABCDE system), which may indicate skin cancer.
ABCDE of skin cancer
AsymmetryOne side of a mole is distinctly different from the other side.Borders that are irregularA mole or lesion has edges that arenβt even, such as being notched, blurred or ragged.Color thatβs unevenMoles may have a variety of colors, including brown, black, tan, white, gray, pink or even blue.DiameterMoles have changed in size or are bigger than the size of a pea.EvolvingMoles have changed in size, shape or color in the recent past.