Melanoma, another type of skin cancer, arises in the pigment cells (melanocytes).
As new cells move upward, they become flattened squamous cells, where a skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma can occur. One type of skin cancer called basal cell carcinoma begins in the basal cells, which make skin cells that continuously push older cells toward the surface. Skin cancer begins in the cells that make up the outer layer (epidermis) of your skin. Make an appointment with your doctor if you notice any skin changes that seem unusual. An eye melanoma may cause vision changes and may be diagnosed during an eye exam. Eye melanoma, also called ocular melanoma, most often occurs in the uvea - the layer beneath the white of the eye (sclera). Mucosal melanomas are especially difficult to detect because they can easily be mistaken for other far more common conditions. Mucosal melanoma develops in the mucous membrane that lines the nose, mouth, esophagus, anus, urinary tract and vagina. Melanoma in the mouth, digestive tract, urinary tract or vagina.It's more common in people of Asian descent, black people and in others with dark skin pigment. It can also be found on the palms of the hands or the soles of the feet. Acral-lentiginous melanoma is a rare form of melanoma that can occur under a fingernail or toenail. When melanoma occurs in people with darker skin, it's more likely to occur in a hidden area. These are sometimes referred to as hidden melanomas because they occur in places most people wouldn't think to check. Melanomas can also develop in areas of your body that have little or no exposure to the sun, such as the spaces between your toes and on your palms, soles, scalp or genitals. Some may show all of the changes listed above, while others may have only one or two unusual characteristics. Moles may also evolve to develop new signs and symptoms, such as new itchiness or bleeding.Ĭancerous (malignant) moles vary greatly in appearance. Look for changes over time, such as a mole that grows in size or that changes color or shape.
Look for new growth in a mole larger than 1/4 inch (about 6 millimeters). Look for growths that have many colors or an uneven distribution of color. Look for moles with irregular, notched or scalloped borders - characteristics of melanomas. Look for moles with irregular shapes, such as two very different-looking halves. To help you identify characteristics of unusual moles that may indicate melanomas or other skin cancers, think of the letters ABCDE: Moles may change in appearance over time and some may even disappear with age. By the time they are adults, most people have between 10 and 40 moles. Most moles begin appearing in childhood and new moles may form until about age 40. They're oval or round and usually smaller than 1/4 inch (about 6 millimeters) in diameter - the size of a pencil eraser. Normal moles are generally a uniform color - such as tan, brown or black - with a distinct border separating the mole from your surrounding skin. It can also occur on otherwise normal-appearing skin.
The first melanoma signs and symptoms often are: These hidden melanomas are more common in people with darker skin. Melanomas can also occur in areas that don't receive much sun exposure, such as the soles of your feet, palms of your hands and fingernail beds. They most often develop in areas that have had exposure to the sun, such as your back, legs, arms and face. Melanomas can develop anywhere on your body. This melanoma shows color variations and an irregular border, both of which are melanoma warning signs. The first sign of melanoma is often a mole that changes size, shape or color.