Symptoms of melanoma skin cancer

Melanoma skin cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that arises from the pigment-producing cells known as melanocytes.
Recognizing the symptoms of melanoma early is crucial for effective treatment and a better prognosis.
The most common symptom of melanoma is a change in an existing mole or the appearance of a new, unusual-looking growth on your skin.
These changes can include alterations in size, shape, or color.
Melanomas often have an irregular border and may be multi-colored, including shades of brown, black, pink, red, white, or blue.
Another key symptom to watch for is the evolution of a mole or skin lesion, meaning any change in size, shape, color, or elevation, or any new symptom such as bleeding, itching, or crusting.
The 'ABCDE' rule is a helpful guide for identifying potential melanomas: Asymmetry (one half doesn't match the other), Border (irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges), Color (varied from one area to another), Diameter (melanomas are usually greater than 6mm, or about the size of a pencil eraser), and Evolving (a mole or skin lesion that looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape, or color).
Melanoma can occur anywhere on the body, but it is most commonly found on the back, legs, arms, and face.
It can also develop in areas not typically exposed to the sun, such as the soles of the feet, palms of the hands, and under the nails.
If you notice any suspicious changes in your skin, it is important to seek medical advice promptly.
Early detection and treatment are key to managing melanoma effectively.
For those concerned about potential melanoma symptoms, Doctola offers a convenient and anonymous way to get a quick diagnosis.
Simply upload a photo of your skin issue and receive a comprehensive PDF diagnosis in under 3 minutes, providing peace of mind and guidance on the next steps.

Fill out our short form and receive your diagnosis in under 3 minutes!

We understand how overwhelming it can be to worry about your symptoms while waiting for a doctor’s appointment.
That’s why we created Doctola—to give you an instant, anonymous diagnosis from the comfort of your home. Our unique system combines AI and real doctors to provide a comprehensive diagnosis in a downloadable PDF, all in under 3 minutes. You can even upload medical files like blood tests, imaging results, or any other documents for a more accurate assessment.

Get your diagnosis now in under 3 minutes—we’ve made it affordable for everyone.