Early Detection For Your Protection

Moles can appear on any person, any part of the body, at any time. But if your mole changes shape, color or appearance, there is no time to waste, according to the physicians at Midwest Dermatology Clinic. These changes may signal a malignant melanoma or other skin cancer. When detected early, it can be cured. If not, deadly melanoma cancer cells may spread to other sites in the body.


What to Look For

Melanomas are usually asymmetrical (not round or shaped irregularly) with borders that are often notched and uneven. They may also have different shades of coloring. Some other warning signs that may signal melanoma include:

• A mole that increases in size, especially if it becomes larger than a pencil eraser.
• A mole that changes in color, texture or shape.
• A mole that itches or causes sensation when touched.
• A mole that crusts, bleeds or becomes traumatized.
• A mole that changes in appearance in any way.
• A new mole.

What to Do

If you notice any of the warning signs of a malignant melanoma, schedule an appointment with Midwest Dermatology Clinic. Your physician can exam the mole and inspect other parts of your body for suspicious moles. If necessary, a small sample of the mole can be taken for examination in a laboratory to determine whether or not it is cancerous.


Treatment

The treatment recommended will depend on the stage at which it is detected. If the melanoma is confined to the skin, your physician may perform an excision to remove the melanoma and the skin surrounding it. If the melanoma has spread, a follow-up exam with a physician specializing in cancer is usually recommended.


FREE Mole Watch

The best protection against cancer is early detection. That is why Midwest Dermatology Clinic offers FREE mole watch screenings. These screenings are available at any of the Midwest Dermatology Clinic locations. Schedule a Molewatch consultation or click here for more information.