Diagnosing Melanoma

• 1). Be concerned about any mole, freckle or skin spot larger than an eraser on the end of a pencil. Large skin discolorations, particularly if they have grown or changed, should be checked out by a physician.
  
  
• 2). Be wary of new and older skin spots. Just because you were born with a skin spot, birthmark or mole doesn't mean it is not concerning. Any spot or discoloration that changes must be examined.
  
  
• 3). Perform regular skin checks to see if you notice any unusual skin spots or markings. This should include your entire body. Faces and shoulders are often the first place people consider as having the highest risk for skin cancer. It is also common on the feet and legs.
  
  
• 4). See your Doctor for a skin check if you are suspicious of any mole or skin discoloration. If there is a sign of melanoma the doctor will most likely biopsy the area or refer you to a dermatologist.
  
  
• 5). Biopsy the area in question with a dermatologist. The sample will be examined and tested at a lab. The results should be back within one to two weeks. The results will include: 1) A definitive answer on what the skin area consists of; 2) a stage of cancer if appropriate and 3) the estimated size or thickness of any diagnosed cancer. This information is necessary to determine the best treatment options for malignant melanoma.