Skin cancer (melanoma)

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can spread to other organs in the body.

The most common sign of melanoma is the appearance of a new mole or a change in an existing mole. This can happen anywhere on the body, but the back, legs, arms and face are most commonly affected.

In most cases, melanomas have an irregular shape and more than 1 colour. They may also be larger than normal moles and can sometimes be itchy or bleed.

An ‘ABCDE checklist’ has been developed for people to tell the difference between a normal mole and a melanoma. 

Read more about the symptoms of melanoma.

These pages mainly cover a type of melanoma known as superficial spreading melanoma, which accounts for around 70% of all melanomas in the UK.

Symptoms

The first sign of a melanoma is often a new mole or a change in the appearance of an existing mole.

Normal moles are usually round or oval, with a smooth edge, and no bigger than 6mm (1/4 inch) in diameter.

Speak to your GP as soon as possible if you notice changes in a mole, freckle or patch of skin, especially if the changes happen over a few weeks or months.

Signs to look out for include a mole that is:

getting bigger changing shape changing colour bleeding or becoming crusty itchy or painful

A helpful way to tell the difference between a normal mole and a melanoma is the ABCDE checklist:

Asymmetrical – melanomas have 2 very different halves and are an irregular shape Border – melanomas have a notched or ragged border Colours – melanomas will be a mix of 2 or more colours Diameter – melanomas are larger than 6mm (1/4 inch) in diameter. Enlargement or elevation – a mole that changes size over time is more likely to be a melanoma

Melanomas can appear anywhere on your body, but they most commonly appear on the back, legs, arms and face. They may sometimes develop underneath a nail.

In rare cases, melanoma can develop in the eye. Noticing a dark spot or changes in vision can be signs, although it is more likely to be diagnosed during a routine eye examination.

Read further information:

Cancer Research UK: Melanoma symptoms