Symptoms and Complications
Melanoma is a visible kind of cancer, unlike others that start inside the body (such as breast cancer or prostate cancer). Melanoma often cause changes that are visible and apparent. What's important is to recognize the signs and have a doctor check any suspicious moles.
A changing mole doesn't necessarily mean cancer, but it certainly needs looking at. A new mole on previously clear skin is equally significant. See a dermatologist or your family doctor about any of the following changes:
- A mole's border becomes ragged or indistinct, or pigment (coloring) seeps into neighboring skin.
- A mole grows, changes color, becomes raised from the skin, or develops small irregular bumps or crags.
- A mole becomes hard, crusty, or irritated, or is bleeding.
- An ulcer or cut doesn't heal after a month.
- Black spots appear under the base of the nails.
- Any new growth or patch of abnormal color appears on the skin.
Melanoma is a very dangerous skin cancer if left untreated because it can spread to other parts of the body and can even lead to death.