Among skin cancers, melanoma poses the greatest threat because of its tendency to spread quickly if left untreated. While basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma usually grow slowly and remain confined to the skin, melanoma is far more aggressive, with the potential to reach lymph nodes and internal organs in a relatively short time. Even though it occurs less often than other skin cancers, the number of melanoma cases in the U.S. continues to rise, underscoring the importance of early detection and routine skin checks.
Melanoma originates in melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells that give skin its color. It can sometimes start within an existing mole that begins to change, but it may also appear as a brand-new, irregular spot on the skin. Because of its fast-moving nature, diagnosing melanoma promptly is critical—outcomes are far more favorable when treatment begins early.
Signs to watch for include moles or lesions that look different from others, evolve over time, or display irregular borders, uneven coloring, or rapid growth. Protecting the skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, avoiding tanning beds, and scheduling regular dermatologic exams remain the best tools for prevention and early recognition.
Signs & Symptoms
- A mole or spot that changes in size, shape, or color. The ABCDE rule helps guide what to watch for:
- Asymmetry – one half doesn’t match the other
- Border – irregular, jagged, or blurred edges
- Color – varied shades of brown, black, red, blue, or white
- Diameter – larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
- Evolution – noticeable changes over time
- Appears on sun-exposed areas like the face, arms, legs, and back. Melanoma may also appear in less exposed regions such as the palms, soles, scalp, under nails, or mucous membranes.
- Usually painless early on, though some melanomas may itch, bleed, or become tender.
- Unlike common moles, melanomas continue to change and grow, which is why ongoing monitoring is essential.
Risk Factors
Certain factors increase melanoma risk:
- Fair skin, light eyes, or blonde/red hair
- A history of blistering sunburns (especially in childhood)
- Excessive sun exposure or tanning bed use
- Numerous or atypical moles
- Family history of melanoma
- Weakened immune system
Treatment Options
- Skin biopsy to confirm diagnosis
- Surgical excision with appropriate margins
- Lymph node biopsy or imaging in cases of concern for spread
- Specialty referral for advanced melanoma requiring immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or chemotherapy
Our goal is the complete removal of melanoma with the best possible cosmetic and functional outcome.
Why Early Detection Matters
When caught early, melanoma is highly treatable, and outcomes are excellent. Left untreated, melanoma can spread rapidly, requiring more complex care. Individuals with a history of melanoma remain at higher risk of recurrence or new melanomas, making regular skin checks a critical part of lifelong care.
Prevention & Ongoing Care
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) daily
- Avoid tanning beds
- Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses outdoors
- Perform monthly self-skin checks for new or changing moles
- Schedule regular skin exams with your dermatologist
If you notice any skin irregularities, it is essential that you schedule a consultation with a dermatologist as soon as possible for a thorough evaluation. ProDerm Skin & Surgery can help diagnose melanoma and related skin cancers, and develop a custom treatment plan to counter its progression as quickly as possible.