Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that is more dangerous than its more common counterparts due to its ability to rapidly spread if left untreated. Fortunately, you can protect yourself from developing advanced melanoma by routinely checking your skin for suspicious spots. The method dermatologists recommend individuals use in evaluating whether a spot requires a professional opinion is known as ABCDE. Dermatologists created the ABCDE method to create a simple way for laymen to use to monitor spots on their skin that may require medical attention.
At VitalCare Family Practice, Dr. Shah includes skin checks in his treatment menu. His expertise and experience in all facets of primary care allow him to be well versed in skin checks and working with specialists, such as dermatologist, to get the best care for his patients.
A: Asymmetry
If you have a mark on your skin that looks different on one side than it does on the other, you should get it looked at by a professional. Healthy skin markings are typically even and symmetrical. Early-stage melanoma is often irregularly shaped.
B: Border
Benign skin markings usually have borders that are neat and clearly defined. Early stage melanoma often has borders that are oddly shaped or poorly defined. Spots that have lumpy or blurry borders need to be evaluated by a doctor.
C: Color
If your spot has multiple colors in it, it should be evaluated by a doctor. Early stage melanoma can have mixed up splotches of brown, black, and tan, or even areas that are red, blue, or white.
D: Diameter
If a spot is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser), it needs to be evaluated by a doctor even if it doesn’t have any other suspicious qualities.
E: Evolving
If you notice a spot changing over time in size, shape, or color, you need to have it evaluated by a doctor.
While cancer is always a frightening topic to think about, melanoma can be treated quite successfully when it’s caught during its early stages. By using this simple method to monitor your skin’s health, you can more easily identify any abnormal developments in your skin, and bring those developments to a doctor’s attention as soon as they occur.
When you notice something amiss with a spot on your skin, bring it to your doctor’s attention as soon as you can. They can likely refer you to a surgical dermatologist who can excise your suspicious spot and test it for cancerous cells, all while using their skills to reduce the cosmetic impact of scarring while also minimizing your risk of any cancer returning.
As with many health concerns, the key to successfully dealing with melanoma is to pay attention to your body and to quickly take any new concerns to your doctor as soon as you notice them. With the ABCDE method, identifying suspicious spots on your skin becomes a much simpler (and less intimidating) task.
Melanoma: Contact Us Today
If you have noticed a skin change, need a skin check or routine physical, or have questions about other health issues, contact VitalCare Family Practice. Our team of medical professionals is here for you and your family, in all stages of life, for all your healthcare needs.
