Illustration copyright 2000 by Nucleus Communications,
Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com
The
most important warning sign for melanoma is a change in
size, shape, or color of a mole or other skin growth, such as a birthmark. One
of the things to watch for is diameter.
Diameter is width. If the
diameter across a mole or skin growth is larger than 1/4 inch (6 mm), or about
the size of a pencil eraser, talk to your doctor. Also, call your doctor if any
mole seems to be growing, even if it is still smaller than 1/4 inch (6
mm).
|
By
|
Healthwise Staff |
|
Primary Medical Reviewer
|
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
|
Specialist Medical Reviewer
|
Amy McMichael, MD - Dermatology |
|
Last Revised
|
October 12, 2012 |