What is a significant early symptom of malignant melanoma?

A significant early symptom of malignant melanoma is a change in color. This dermatological condition often begins with alterations in the pigmentation of a mole or the appearance of a new spot on the skin. Such changes may include variations in shade, irregular borders, or the presence of multiple colors within a single lesion, like brown, black, red, or white. Recognizing these color changes is critical as they can indicate the development of melanoma, prompting further evaluation and timely intervention.

While symptoms like ulceration, bleeding, and pruritus might occur in more advanced stages of melanoma or in other skin conditions, they are not typically the first signs that practitioners identify. A change in color is a hallmark indicator and is often emphasized in patient education about skin cancer awareness, making it a vital aspect of early detection efforts.