Skin Cancer Detection Tips
Understand the early warning signs of suspicious moles using the physician-approved ABCDE method. Early detection saves lives and helps ensure safer, simpler treatment.
How to Recognize Suspicious Moles
All of these mole pictures (with exception of the bottom right photo) are of biopsy-proven deadly malignant melanoma skin cancers that our clinic has managed for patients. Photos are copyright (c) The Mole Clinic and must not be copied or distributed without express written consent.
A – Asymmetry
Melanomas are often uneven or irregular, where one half doesn’t match the other. This asymmetry is an early warning sign. Benign moles are usually round, uniform, and evenly shaped.
B – Border
Benign moles usually have smooth, even borders. Melanoma may show jagged or poorly defined edges with areas of breakdown. Any mole that itches, bleeds, or forms a scab should be assessed promptly.
C – Color
Uneven colour or multiple shades—such as black, brown, blue, or tan—can be a warning sign of melanoma. Benign moles typically appear uniform and are usually a single consistent colour.
D – Diameter
Melanoma is often larger than 6 mm in diameter, roughly the size of a pencil eraser. The example shown is a basal cell carcinoma measuring about 2.5 cm on the abdomen.
Benign vs. Suspicious Moles
| Feature | Benign Moles | Suspicious Moles |
| Shape | Symmetrical | Asymmetrical |
| Border | Smooth | Irregular or blurred |
| Color | One shade | Multi-toned or uneven |
| Diameter | Less than 6 mm | Greater than 6 mm or increasing in size |
| Evolution | Stable over time | Changing in size, shape, or colour |
Have any questions or concerns?
Our medical team can guide you during a personalized consultation.