
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. The most important warning sign of melanoma is a change in the size, shape, or color of a mole or other skin growth, such as a birthmark.
- A change in diameter (width) is one thing to watch for. Call your doctor if:
- The width of a mole or skin growth is larger than 1/4 inch (6 mm), or about the size of a pencil eraser.
- Any mole seems to be growing, even if it is still smaller than 1/4 inch (6 mm).
Current as of:
September 8, 2021
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Amy McMichael MD - Dermatology