Small, but irregular, black and brown pigment is a sign of a melanoma, a serious skin cancer. Any new pigmented, itching, bleeding, or changing moles should be checked by your doctor. This melanoma has a classic blue-black color. Black, multi-colored, asymmetric, or irregularly shaped lesions all need to be checked by a dermatologist or doctor skilled in looking at moles. This image displays a multi-colored (including black) lesion with an irregular shape and scalloped borders typical of melanoma. This image displays a brown, blue-gray, and pink lesion with an irregular border typical of early melanoma. This melanoma started as a flat, irregular dark spot but has developed a raised, crusted area. This image displays a melanoma with a white and pink center, a darker black-brown area, and pink and brown c-shaped tumor on the left side of the lesion. This image displays a round, bleeding melanoma that has a small "satellite" tumor underneath it. This image displays a melanoma with irregular borders surrounded by many other benign growths, which are much smaller and have regular, circular borders. This image displays a darkly pigmented lesion typical of melanoma. This image displays an almost black melanoma found in between the toes. This melanoma has multiple dark colors, an asymmetrical shape, and a very irregular border typical of melanoma. This image displays a lesion with an irregular edge and multiple colors--white, pink, pink-brown, and flecks of blue-black--typical of melanoma. When a melanoma involves the fingernail, the cuticle often has the discoloration as well as the nail plate.
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Melanoma  Information for adults

Picture of Melanoma: Small, but irregular, black and brown pigment is a sign of a melanoma, a serious skin cancer. Any new pigmented, itching, bleeding, or changing moles should be checked by your doctor. Divider line
Small, but irregular, black and brown pigment is a sign of a melanoma, a serious skin cancer. Any new pigmented, itching, bleeding, or changing moles should be checked by your doctor.
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Who's At Risk
You have an increased risk of developing melanoma if you have: 
  • A family history of melanoma – Having someone in your family with melanoma increases your risk tenfold.
  • Fair skin, light eyes, and a tendency to freckle – The risk of getting melanoma is 1 in 50 for whites, 1 in 200 for Hispanics, and 1 in 1,000 for blacks.
  • A large number of moles, especially unusual appearing moles.
  • History of frequent sun exposure, especially in childhood.
  • History of sunburns.
  • Decreased immune system, such as transplant patients and patients with HIV/AIDS.
Melanoma may be seen at any age, but it is most often diagnosed during middle age. 

Sunlamps and tanning beds may increase your risk of melanoma, especially if they cause sunburn.
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Last Modified: 12 Feb 2009
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