Melanomas vary greatly in the way they look. The first sign of a melanoma is usually a change in an existing freckle or mole or the appearance of a new spot. The earlier the diagnosis the higher the chance of successful treatment.
The most common system for detecting a melanoma is the ABCDE rule. However not all melanomas obey the rules and expert assessment is important.

ABCDE System

A-Asymmetry (one half unlike the other)




B-Border (irregular, ragged or notchy edges)




C-Colour (Many shades of brown and black, sometimes white, red or
blue)




D-Diameter (> 6mm)



 
E-Evolving (elevation, change)



A freckle or mole that itches or bleeds can suggest a change. Changes are normally noticed over several weeks. A useful tool is total body photography which provides a baseline for future assessment. Some Doctors also use a Dermatoscope (Magnifying glass) to look at skin lesions.
It is normal for new moles to appear and change during childhood and pregnancy. However, in adults a new mole could be a melanoma. Always ask your doctor to look at your skin if you are concerned
Melanoma can occur anywhere on the body, but usually develops in areas that are exposed to the sun.

If in doubt always consult your Doctor for an assessment.

If your doctor is concerned about a lesion he will perform an excision biopsy using local anaesthetic (numbing injection). There are various ways of doing this but the important thing is that a Pathologist examines the specimen so that a diagnosis can be made.



 

Excision biopsy.



Once a diagnosis of melanoma is made your Doctor will refer you on to a specialist skin cancer surgeon.