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Melanoma skin cancer sign: Asymmetry

A normal mole and a mole with halves that do not match.

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. The most important warning sign of melanoma is a change in the size, shape, or colour of a mole or other skin growth, such as a birthmark.

  • Asymmetry is one thing to watch for. This means that one half doesn't match the other half. Call your doctor if you notice that:
    • One half of a mole doesn't match the other half.

Current as of: March 1, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Amy McMichael MD - Dermatology
Donald Sproule MDCM, CCFP - Family Medicine

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

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