What Is Melanoma? Signs, Risk Factors & When to See a Dermatologist
Melanoma is one of the most serious forms of skin cancer and one of the most preventable when caught early. Knowing what to look for, who is most at risk, and when to seek a professional opinion could quite literally save your life. Here is what Edmonton’s board-certified dermatologists want you to know.
What Is Melanoma?
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that begins in the melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing the pigment that gives your skin its colour. While it is less common than other forms of skin cancer like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma is significantly more likely to spread to other parts of the body if not caught in its early stages.
According to the Canadian Cancer Society, melanoma is among the top ten most commonly diagnosed cancers in Canada. In Alberta, rates of skin cancer continue to rise year over year, making awareness and early detection more important than ever.
What Are the Signs of Melanoma? The ABCDE Rule
The ABCDE rule is the most widely used framework for identifying suspicious moles or skin lesions that may require a professional evaluation.
A — Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
B — Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.
C — Colour: The mole contains multiple shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue.
D — Diameter: The lesion is larger than 6mm — roughly the size of a pencil eraser — though melanomas can be smaller when first detected.
E — Evolving: Any change in size, shape, colour, or behaviour (bleeding, itching, crusting) is a red flag.
It is important to note that not every melanoma fits neatly into these categories. Some appear as flat, lightly coloured patches. Others may develop in areas rarely exposed to the sun, including under nails, on the soles of the feet, or on the scalp. This is precisely why a trained dermatologist’s eye matters.
Who Is at Risk for Melanoma?
Anyone can develop melanoma, but certain factors increase your risk:
- Fair skin, light eyes, or red or blonde hair
- A history of sunburns, especially blistering burns in childhood
- Frequent or prolonged UV exposure whether from the sun or tanning beds
- A large number of moles or atypical (dysplastic) moles
- A personal or family history of skin cancer
- A weakened immune system
- Living at higher altitudes or in regions with intense UV exposure
Edmonton’s northern latitude does not make us immune to sun damage. UV rays are present year-round and can be intensified by snow reflection in winter months, making year-round sun protection essential for Albertans.
When Should You See a Dermatologist?
The short answer: sooner than you think. Melanoma caught in Stage I has a five-year survival rate above 98%. That number drops significantly as the cancer advances, which is why waiting to “keep an eye on it” is a risk not worth taking.
You should book a skin examination with a board-certified dermatologist if:
- You notice any new, changing, or unusual mole or lesion
- A mole itches, bleeds, or becomes raised without explanation
- You have not had a professional skin check in the last year
- You have a personal or family history of skin cancer
- You have a high number of moles or a history of tanning bed use
At Lucere Dermatology & Laser Clinic in Edmonton, Dr. Zaki Taher — a Board-Certified Dermatologist — provides comprehensive skin examinations for patients concerned about moles, lesions, or changing skin. Book your complimentary consultation at lucereskin.com or call 780-461-1188.
How Is Melanoma Diagnosed?
A dermatologist will begin with a visual examination using dermoscopy: a specialized tool that magnifies the skin and allows for detailed evaluation of pigmented lesions. If a mole appears suspicious, a biopsy may be recommended. During a biopsy, a small sample of tissue is removed and sent to a pathology lab for analysis.
This is why seeing a board-certified dermatologist — rather than a general practitioner or aesthetician — matters. Dermoscopy interpretation requires specific training. Dr. Taher’s medical expertise in skin conditions, including skin cancer, ensures every examination is thorough and informed.
Can Melanoma Be Prevented?
While no prevention strategy is 100% guaranteed, the following steps significantly reduce your risk:
- Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen daily — including in winter
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours during prolonged outdoor exposure
- Seek shade between 10am and 4pm when UV is strongest
- Wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses
- Avoid tanning beds entirely
- Schedule annual professional skin examinations
Frequently Asked Questions: Melanoma
What does melanoma look like in its early stages?
Early melanoma often appears as a new or changing mole. It may look asymmetrical, have irregular or blurred edges, show multiple colours, or appear to grow over time. Some early-stage melanomas are flat and can resemble a freckle or sunspot. When in doubt, have it evaluated by a dermatologist.
Is melanoma the same as a mole?
No. Most moles are benign (non-cancerous). Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can arise from an existing mole or develop in normal-looking skin. The distinction can only be confirmed by a medical professional.
How often should I get a skin check?
The Canadian Dermatology Association recommends annual professional skin examinations for adults and more frequent checks for those at higher risk. Monthly self-examinations are also encouraged.
Can you get melanoma on areas not exposed to the sun?
Yes. While UV exposure is the most common trigger, melanoma can develop on areas that receive little to no sun, including the palms, soles, under the nails, and mucous membranes. This type is called acral lentiginous melanoma and is more common in people with darker skin tones.
Your skin deserves expert attention. Book a skin examination at Lucere Dermatology & Laser Clinic in Edmonton. Dr. Zaki Taher is Edmonton’s only Board-Certified Dermatologist offering comprehensive mole checks and skin cancer evaluations. Visit lucereskin.com or call 780-461-1188 to schedule your consultation.