Pictures of Melanoma
Large size
|
Most melanomas are at least 5 millimeters
(about 1/4 inch) across when they are found; many
are much larger. An unusually large mole may be melanoma.
![Picture of a melanoma illustrating large size](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20081021090420im_/http://www.nci.nih.gov/images/Documents/4e56fa9d-6b8c-49fd-9600-3a3e1f19ca8c/mnoma1.jpg)
|
Many colors
|
A mixture of tan, brown, white, pink, red, gray, blue, and especially
black in a mole suggests melanoma.
![Picture of a melanoma illustrating color variation](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20081021090420im_/http://www.nci.nih.gov/images/Documents/4e56fa9d-6b8c-49fd-9600-3a3e1f19ca8c/mnoma2.jpg)
|
Irregular border
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If a mole has an edge that is irregular or notched, it may be melanoma.
![Picture of a melanoma illustrating irregular border](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20081021090420im_/http://www.nci.nih.gov/images/Documents/4e56fa9d-6b8c-49fd-9600-3a3e1f19ca8c/mnoma3.jpg)
|
Abnormal surface
|
If a mole is scaly, flaky, oozing, or bleeding, has an open sore that does not heal, or has a
hard lump in it, it may be melanoma.
![Picture of a melanoma illustrating abnormal surface](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20081021090420im_/http://www.nci.nih.gov/images/Documents/4e56fa9d-6b8c-49fd-9600-3a3e1f19ca8c/mnoma4.jpg)
|
Unusual sensation
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If a mole itches or is painful or tender, melanoma may be present.
![Picture of a very large, irregularly shaped melanoma](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20081021090420im_/http://www.nci.nih.gov/images/Documents/4e56fa9d-6b8c-49fd-9600-3a3e1f19ca8c/mnoma5.jpg)
|
Abnormal skin around mole
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If color from the mole spreads into the skin around it or if this skin becomes red or loses
its color (becomes white or gray), melanoma may be present.
![Picture of a mole with abnormal surrounding skin, suggestive of melanoma](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20081021090420im_/http://www.nci.nih.gov/images/Documents/4e56fa9d-6b8c-49fd-9600-3a3e1f19ca8c/mnoma6.jpg)
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