Early Detection of Skin Cancer Can Save Your Life. Contact us Today for a Free Consultation.
At St. Louis Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, we believe that one of the most important things you can do for your skin health is to stay vigilant about melanoma. Skin cancer is a severe condition, and melanoma is the most dangerous form. However, with early detection, the survival rate is significantly higher. The challenge lies in recognizing the signs early, and that’s where we come in—to help you spot the warning signs and take action if necessary.
Take control of your skin health now—contact us at St. Louis Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery for peace of mind and expert care.
What is Melanoma?
Melanoma develops from melanocytes, the cells in your skin responsible for producing melanin, which gives your skin its color. While melanoma is less common than other types of skin cancer, it’s more aggressive and can spread to different parts of the body if not caught early. That’s why early detection is vital.
At St. Louis Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, we emphasize that self-awareness, routine skin checks, and professional evaluations can make all the difference in catching melanoma at an early stage when it is most treatable.
Understanding the ABCDEs of Melanoma
Dermatologists worldwide use a simple but effective method called the ABCDEs of melanoma to help detect potential melanomas. This tool can help you identify the warning signs that should prompt further examination.
- A – Asymmetry
- Melanomas are often asymmetrical. This means that one half of the mole or lesion doesn’t match the other. If you draw an imaginary line down the center, both sides should look alike. If they don’t, it’s a red flag.
- B – Border
- Melanoma’s borders are typically irregular, ragged, or blurred. Instead of smooth, clean edges like a normal mole, melanoma may have notched or scalloped edges that spread unevenly.
- C – Color
- A healthy mole is usually a single shade of brown, tan, or black. Melanomas, however, can contain various colors, including shades of brown, black, pink, red, white, or blue. If a mole has multiple colors, it’s a sign that it needs to be examined by a dermatologist.
- D – Diameter
- While melanomas can be smaller, they are often larger than 6 millimeters across (about the size of a pencil eraser). If you notice a mole that has grown or is larger than this size, it’s worth checking out.
- E – Evolving
- Any change in a mole’s size, shape, color, elevation, or any new symptoms like bleeding, itching, or crusting can be a sign of melanoma. Healthy moles stay consistent, so any evolving changes should not be ignored.
Additional Warning Signs of Melanoma
While the ABCDE rule is an excellent guide, some melanomas don’t follow these patterns. Here are a few other signs to look for:
- The Ugly Duckling Sign: This refers to any mole or spot that stands out as different from others on your body. If one spot looks markedly different from the others, it warrants a closer look.
- Nodular Melanoma: This more aggressive form of melanoma may not follow the ABCDE guidelines. Nodular melanomas often appear as raised, firm bumps that can be black, blue, red, or skin-colored. These lesions tend to increase and need immediate attention.
- Non-skin Lesions: Melanoma can also occur in places not typically associated with sun exposure, such as under nails, in the mouth, or on the soles of the feet. These are called acral melanomas and are more common in individuals with darker skin tones.
Who Is at Risk for Melanoma?
Though anyone can develop melanoma, certain factors increase your risk:
- Excessive Sun Exposure: Individuals with a history of excessive sun exposure, sunburns (especially in childhood), or tanning bed use are at higher risk.
- Fair Skin: Those with fair skin, light eyes, and red or blonde hair are more prone to developing melanoma.
- Family or Personal History: Your risk increases if you or a family member have had melanoma.
- Mole Count: Many or atypical (dysplastic) moles can elevate your risk.
- Age and Gender: Melanoma is more common in older adults, but it is also one of the most common cancers in young adults, particularly young women.
When to See a Dermatologist
At St. Louis Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, we encourage you to conduct regular skin self-exams. However, scheduling regular skin checks with a dermatologist is essential beyond self-monitoring, especially if you fall into one of the higher-risk categories. You should schedule an appointment if:
- You notice a mole or lesion that follows the ABCDE guidelines.
- You observe any skin changes, including new growths or evolving moles.
- You’ve had previous cases of skin cancer or have a family history of melanoma.
Our expert team can provide a thorough skin evaluation and, if necessary, perform a biopsy to determine whether a suspicious lesion is melanoma. Early detection allows for early treatment, often minimally invasive and highly effective.
How St. Louis Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Can Help
St. Louis Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery offers advanced skin cancer screenings and treatments. Our board-certified dermatologists use the latest technologies to detect melanoma and other skin cancers early, ensuring the best possible outcomes. We provide personalized care and will guide you through the process, from diagnosis to treatment and follow-up care. Our melanoma services include:
- Comprehensive Skin Exams: Regular full-body exams to detect abnormal moles or growths.
- Dermatoscopy: A tool that helps us see beneath the skin’s surface to assess moles more thoroughly.
- Biopsies and Pathology: Quick, in-office procedures to remove and evaluate suspicious lesions.
- Advanced Treatment Options: Depending on the diagnosis, treatments can include surgical removal, Mohs surgery, or further referrals for additional care if necessary.
Prevention: How You Can Reduce Your Risk
While some risk factors like genetics can’t be controlled, there are steps you can take to lower your risk of developing melanoma:
- Use Sunscreen Daily: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, even on cloudy days.
- Avoid Tanning Beds: UV rays from tanning beds can significantly increase your risk of melanoma.
- Cover Up: Wear protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses to shield your skin from harmful UV rays.
- Stay in the Shade: Avoid direct sunlight during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
- Perform Regular Self-Exams: Check your skin once a month for any suspicious moles or lesions.
Contact us Today: Protect Your Skin, Protect Your Life
Melanoma is a serious condition, but early detection can save lives. By being aware of the warning signs and understanding your risk factors, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin. St. Louis Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery is committed to providing the highest quality care to help you prevent, detect, and treat melanoma.
Take control of your skin health now—contact us at St. Louis Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery for peace of mind and expert care.
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