Melanoma skin cancer sign: Color variation

A mole of uniform color and a mole showing color variation

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

Color variation is one thing to watch for. Call your doctor if you notice that:
- The color of a mole or other skin growth is not uniform. Shades of tan, brown, and black may be present. Dashes of red, white, and blue may add to the mottled appearance.
- Color has spread from the edge of a mole into the surrounding skin.

Current as of: February 28, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board: All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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Melanoma skin cancer sign: Color variation

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