Dermatofibroma vs Melanoma

How to tell the difference — key features compared side by side.

Feature
Dermatofibroma
Melanoma
Category
Benign
Malignant
Key feature
Firm, small brown bump - usually on the legs. Harmless. The dimple sign is its signature feature.
The most dangerous skin cancer - but 99% survival when caught early. Learn the ABCDE signs.
Risk factors
Female sex (more common in women); Young to middle-aged adults; Prior minor skin trauma (insect bites, shaving nicks)
Fair skin, light eyes, red or blond hair (Fitzpatrick types I-II); History of blistering sunburns, especially before age 18; More than 50 ordinary moles on the body
Action needed
A nodule larger than 1-2cm or growing progressively (may be DFSP)
A new mole or spot that looks different from your other moles (the ugly duckling sign)

Dermatofibroma

Dermatofibroma is a common, harmless, firm nodule that typically appears on the lower legs of women, though it can occur anywhere. It presents as a small (usually under 1cm), firm, slightly raised, brownish bump that feels like a hard lump under the skin.

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Melanoma

Melanoma develops in melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin and give your skin its color. While it accounts for only about 1% of skin cancers, it causes most of skin cancer deaths. The good news: when detected at stage I, the five-year survival rate exceeds 99%.

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Does yours look more like dermatofibroma?

Quick self-check

Does this look like dermatofibroma? Answer 2 questions.

Does the center dimple inward when you pinch the sides?

Is it a small (under 1cm), firm, brownish bump - most likely on the leg?

Still not sure?

Our full ABCDE checker evaluates 5 clinical criteria dermatologists use.

Full ABCDE check →