The first step of diagnosing stage 2 melanoma usually involves a visual inspection. If you notice an unusual growth on your skin or a change in an existing mole, see a doctor right away. The doctor will visually examine the mole or growth. If the doctor suspects melanoma, a biopsy will be performed, which involves removing the growth and analyzing it under a microscope. Since the size of the lesion may vary in stage 2 melanoma, the method for biopsy depends on the size and depth of the lesion. If it's a small mole or growth, the doctor will likely remove the whole growth for the biopsy. If the growth is larger, a doctor will usually remove only a part of the growth. If melanoma is confirmed, doctors will analyze the thickness and depth of the growth to confirm the stage of the cancer.
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