Melanoma Symptoms
Melanoma
is a cancer of the skin or mucous that can take different forms. The cancer can occur suddenly on a skin that
was previously normal, or more rarely in a preexisting mole. Therefore, it is very important to consult a
dermatologist as quickly as possible if you have a mole that undergoes a change in its:
- size
- shape
- color
- surface
texture
- feeling
(becomes painful or sensitive)
In addition, tell your
dermatologist about any abnormal change in your skin. Like any cancer, melanoma must be detected and treated
early for a better prognosis. Earlier the tumor is diagnosed, more chance you have to survive.
In early
melanoma, you can observe a change in
an existing mole or colored
skin growth of a few millimeters. Unlike a regular skin lesion, a spot of melanoma is often asymmetrical and has
an irregular border. After months or years, depending on the type of melanoma you have, the spot/mole evolves
and undergoes changes in its size, shape, contour and color.
In addition,
melanoma is often accompanied by the following dermal signs:
- changing
the area surrounding the lesion
- presence
of a growth or nodule
- extension
of the lesion (it grows deeper into the skin)
- Itching
- often associated with bleeding.
Melanoma Risk
Factor
Melanoma Complications
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