Checking For Skin Cancer
Check your skin monthly on your own and at least once a year with your doctor. The earlier skin cancer is found, the better the chance for a cure. I look for 10 different features of a mole to determine the chance it could be abnormal. Generally if two or more features or present in a given mole, it is wise to consider obtaining a sample of the tissue through an in-office biopsy. Biopsies take only about 10 or 15 minutes and are much more exact than a simple visual inspection of the mole.
Here are the ten features to watch out for:
1. Asymmetry - a lopsided mole
2. Irregular border - as opposed to a smooth well marginated border
3. Large - greater than 6 mm across
4. Multiple colors - at least 2 or changing colors
5. Crusting or oozing
6. Elevating or rapidly enlarging
7. New, if the patient is over age 40
8. Ulcerating or bleeding or a sore that won't heal
9. If a blood relative has had melanoma skin cancer that contributes toward risk
10. An itchy mole - 25% risk for melanoma
Check everywhere, including your back, your scalp and the bottom of your feet. Part your hair with a comb or blow dryer on low speed to better see your scalp. Use a hand mirror to see your back and other hard to see places.