For life-threatening medical emergencies, call 911 without delay. For a mental health crisis, call or text 988 for free and confidential crisis support.
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:
February 27, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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