Screening and Follow-Up
There are no consensus recommendations for routinely screening people who have never had melanoma. However, once you have been diagnosed with melanoma, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommends:
- At least annual dermatologist follow-up screenings to monitor your skin
- Regular self-examination of your skin
Depending on the melanoma stage at your initial diagnosis, you may need more frequent screenings. You also may need to self-examine your lymph nodes. Consult with your dermatologist and/or oncologist regarding a screening regimen that applies specifically to your needs.
The ABCs of Melanoma
Use this 'ABCDE' guide to check for possible symptoms of melanoma:
| A - Asymmetry: | Moles with asymmetrical and irregular shapes |
| B - Border: | Moles with irregular borders: Normal moles tend to have sharp and well degined edges |
| C - Color: | Moles whose color has changed |
| D - Diameter: | Moles whose size (diameter) has changed |
| E – Evolution: | Moles with evolving characteristics over time: changes in size, color, itchiness, or bleeding |
If you see one or more of these characteristics, follow up with a dermatologist immediately.