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Melanoma skin cancer sign: Colour 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 colour of a mole or other skin growth, such as a birthmark.

  • Colour variation is one thing to watch for. Call your doctor if you notice that:
    • The colour 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.
    • Colour has spread from the edge of a mole into the surrounding skin.

Current as of:
December 17, 2020

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Amy McMichael MD - Dermatology