7 Ways to Check if You Have Melanoma

Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that develops in the melanocytes that secrete melanin. Melanin is a pigment that gives color to the skin. In rare cases, melanoma may also occur in the eyes, nose, and throat. Here are 7 ways to check if you have melanoma.

7. Appearance of a mole

The appearance of a new mole is the commonest sign of melanoma. The mole may appear anywhere on the body, especially the skin of the legs in women and the back in men. The appearance of a new mole on the part of the skin that is unprotected from sun exposure can also be a sign of melanoma. [1]

6. A change in an existing mole

A change in the appearance of the existing mole could be a sign of melanoma. If you have a mole, you can check it for any change in the size, shape, or color for the early diagnosis of this condition. [2]

5. Asymmetrical moles

Non-melanoma moles are usually round and symmetrical in shape. You can check if you have melanoma by looking at the appearance of the moles. If the moles on your skin are not symmetrical and have irregular borders, it could be due to melanoma. [3]

4. Bleeding

Bleeding on touch is one of the common characteristics of moles cause due to melanoma. An easy way to check whether your mole is an outgrowth caused due to melanoma is to touch it gently and see if it bleeds. [4]

3. Hidden melanomas

Sometimes, melanoma may develop in parts of the body that are not easily visible or can easily escape your attention. Hence, it is important to check for melanoma in hidden areas such as the spaces between the toes, scalp, soles, oral cavity, inside the nose, and genitals. Hidden melanomas are more common in people with darker skin. [5]

2. Biopsy

A biopsy can help to confirm or rule out the diagnosis of melanoma. This test involves removing a sample of tissues from the mole. The sample can be tested in a laboratory to detect cancerous changes. [6]

1. Imaging tests

Imaging tests like X-rays and CT scans can be useful for assessing whether the melanoma has spread to the deeper tissues and other organs of the body. [7]

 Conclusion

Checking your skin for the appearance of a new mole or a change in the existing mole can help in the diagnosis of melanoma. Tests like biopsy and imaging methods can help to confirm the diagnosis.