Most melanomas are diagnosed when the patient or a family member finds a new mole or a mole that has changed and goes in for a biopsy. The things to look for in a new or changed mole are the A, B, C, D's. stands for asymmetry. Most moles look the same all around the edge but melanomas may have one side that looks different from the other.
Melanomas tend to have an irregular border.
Melanomas often have different shades of brown, black, purple, tan or red within them or even a combination of colors. As melanomas grow they tend to spread out over the surface of the skin and thus increase in diameter. Always remember - early diagnosis gives the best opportunity for cure.