Watch for a mole or skin spot that changes in size, shape, or color, develops irregular borders, or begins to bleed or itch.
The ABCDE rule can help identify concerning changes:
- A — Asymmetry: One half looks different from the other.
- B — Border: The edges are irregular or poorly defined.
- C — Color: The spot has uneven or multiple colors.
- D — Diameter: The spot is often larger than 6 mm, although melanomas can be smaller.
- E — Evolving: The spot changes over time.
A changing spot should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
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