Skip to content
WebMD: Better information. Better health.
 
Other search tools:Symptoms|Doctors|Medical Dictionary

Melanoma/Skin Cancer Health Center

Melanoma/Skin Cancer Overview

Skin cancers include melanoma, basal cell, and squamous cell. Basal and squamous cell are common and treatment is very effective; malignant melanoma, especially in later stages of melanoma, is serious and treatment is difficult. Sun exposure is the biggest cause of melanoma and other skin cancers, but early diagnosis and treatment can increase the survival rate from melanoma. Learn about the signs of all skin cancers, and familiarize yourself with pictures of skin cancer so you can spot it early.

Select a Chapter

Latest Headlines
Use of Sunless Tanners May Cut Exposure to UV Radiation
Women who often use sunless tanners -- those creams and sprays that fake a tan -- may reduce their sunbathing time and tanning bed use, according to a new study.

Community & Resources

Symptoms

Early signs

The most important warning sign for melanoma is any change in size, shape, or color of a mole or other skin growth, such as a birthmark. Watch for changes that occur over a period of weeks to a month. Use the ABCDE rulecamera to evaluate skin changes, and call your health professional if you have any of the following changes.

Women's Health Newsletter

Find out what women really need.

WebMD Special Sections