Picture of two moles: symmetrical and asymmetrical

Illustration copyright 2000 by Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

The most important warning sign for melanoma is a change in size, shape, or color of a mole or other skin growth, such as a birthmark. One of the things to watch for is asymmetry.

Asymmetry means that one half of the mole or skin growth doesn't match the other half. Call your doctor if you notice asymmetry in a mole or other skin growth.

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerKathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerAlexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
Last RevisedDecember 17, 2010

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