It's important to look at your child's skin

SYMPTOMS

Many melanomas start out as a mole or a bump on the skin. Of course, not every mole is cancerous, far from it. What's more telling is whether a mole has undergone any kind of recent change, whether in size, shape, or color.

That's why it's important to look at your child's skin (and, of course, your own) and take a mental snapshot, kind of like a mole roadmap, so you'll know what's normal. With that as a baseline, you'll be able to spot any changes early.

DIAGNOSIS

If a melanoma is suspected, the doctor will perform a biopsy by removing all or part of the mole and examining its cells under a microscope. Not only can a biopsy tell if the cells are cancerous, it can also be used to tell how deeply it has penetrated the skin and can predict its risk of spreading. Knowing these details will help the doctor map out a treatment plan.