Melanoma is a type of cancer that begins in melanocytes, the cells that make the pigment melanin. It can develop anywhere on the body, but is more likely to appear on areas that have had exposure to the sun, such as the back, legs, arms, and face. Melanoma can also occur in areas that dont receive much sun exposure, such as the soles of the feet, palms of the hands, and fingernail beds.

The first sign of melanoma is often a change in the shape, color, size, or feel of an existing mole. However, melanoma may also appear as a new mole. People should tell their doctor if they notice any changes on the skin. The only way to diagnose melanoma is to remove tissue and check it for cancer cells.

Melanoma can have different shades of brown, tan, or black, or areas of white, red, or blue. It can also be pink or even white. Melanomas can vary greatly in how they look, but there are some key features to look out for, which can be remembered using the acronym "ABCDE":

• A: Asymmetry. Most melanomas are asymmetrical, meaning that if you draw a line through the middle of the lesion, the two halves don’t match, so it looks different from a round to oval and symmetrical common mole.
• B: Border. Melanoma borders tend to be uneven and may have scalloped or notched edges. Common moles tend to have smoother, more even borders.
• C: Color. Multiple colors are a warning sign. While benign moles are usually a single shade of brown, a melanoma may have different shades of brown, tan or black. As it grows, the colors red, white or blue may also appear.
• D: Diameter. While melanomas are usually greater than 6 millimeters, or about the size of a pencil eraser, when diagnosed, they can be smaller.
• E: Evolving. The spot looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape, or color.

In more advanced melanoma, the texture of the mole may change. The skin on the surface may break down and look scraped. It may become hard or lumpy. The surface may ooze or bleed. Sometimes the melanoma is itchy, tender, or painful.

Its important to note that not all melanomas have the same appearance, and photos can be helpful but are not a substitute for a professional diagnosis. If you see anything new, changing, or unusual on your skin, its best to get it checked by a dermatologist[[5]](htt...