abcd rule Archives

Early detection of melanoma is the key to prognosis of melanoma. The earlier it can be detected the more chances of easy treatment. However, there are such circumstances where it can be misdiagnosed. So there are no any specific characteristics that can confirm the diagnosis of melanoma. The well-known rule of ABCDE of melanoma detection continues to be a useful tool for both doctors and the public. In this article we’ll brief the most common eight signs of malignant melanoma. Do remember that self-diagnosis may sometimes put you in trouble, so always seek expert advice if you suspect any abnormal moles in your skin.

Eight Signs of Malignant Melanoma

A Asymmetry in shape, which means that one half is not identical to other half. Although not included in ABCDE rule, age can also be another factor. The development of a new pigmented lesion with characteristics of either any of ABCD rule, in an individual above 40-50 years can also be highly suspected for melanoma.

B Border is irregular, notched, scalloped, ragged, or poorly defined as opposed to smooth and straight edges.

C Color is not uniform, varying shades from one area to another, different colors ranging from brown, black, gray, red and white.

D Diameter is usually large, greater than 6mm, approximately the tip of pencil eraser. Some suggest D for difference that denotes difference from other lesion. Experts think that a pigmented mole should globally share a common appearance or family resemblance. Even in an individual with multiple atypical moles, the mole should be morphologically similar. So, the mole that is different from other pigmented moles on a particular individual should always be suspected for melanoma.

E Evolution of moles, if the mole has gone through recent changes in size, shape and color. Some use E for enlargement, which signify an increase in size of lesion. Another is Elevation which is always present and is irregular with surface distortion.

Lesion having above characteristic may potentially be harmful melanoma. In addition to increase in size and change in colors that are two early signs of melanoma, persistent itching is also an earlier symptom. Inflammation, tenderness, ulcer and bleeding denote that the lesion has advanced. If you suspect any of the above changes seek medical advice immediately.

Nevoid melanoma is a rare melanoma that resembles harmless moles and doesn’t follow the ABCDE rule. Early nevoid melanoma usually has smooth borders, small (less than 6mm) and even color lesion, which can be mistaken for harmless lesion according to ABCD rule.

Lets summarize the 8 signs of melanoma

Asymmetry in shape
Border is irregular
Color is not uniform
Diameter is usually large
Difference from other lesions
Evolution of moles
Enlargement of mole
Elevation above the surface

Others

Persistent itching
Inflammation
Tenderness
Ulcer
Bleeding

Melanoma is the most dangerous and lethal type of skin cancer. Melanoma is less common form of skin cancer than others but it causes majority of death then other form of skin cancer. The survival rate for melanoma is directly related to early detection. If it is detected early it can be treated and cured. If the cancer has already advanced and spread to other parts of the body than it is most dangerous and difficult treat and death may occur.

So it is critically important to understand and learn to see and detect the early signs of melanoma. You can perform a self skin examination from head to toe for any sign of melanoma. While doing the self skin examination you should remember the “ABCD rule of melanoma”. This can help you detect any changes in your skin lesion or moles which will help early diagnosis of melanoma so it can be treated effectively and cured. Follow the following ABCD of Melanoma.

ABCD of Melanoma:
Asymmetry: Look for any asymmetry of the lesion, which means if the shape of one half doesn’t match the other, then there is a problem.
Border: Check the border or edges of the lesion. If the border of the lesion is rough, irregular or blurred, then its time to immediately visit your doctor.
Color: Check for the color of the lesion or mole. If the lesion has variation of color like black, tan, brown, red and blue, it could indicate a problem.
Diameter: Melanomas are usually larger then 6mm which is around the size of the eraser on a pencil.
Evolution: In addition to above ABCD, you also must pay attention to evolution. Remember if the mole has changed over time.

So, if you remember and follow the above ABCDE rule of melanoma, it will help in early detection of melanoma and can be treated easily and cured.

Remember: When doing self skin examination do not forget to see the back (your partner can assist you), because many of the melanoma cases have been diagnosed on the back too.

If you find any suspected lesion after going through ABCDE of the lesion immediately consult your dermatologist. It is wise to visit a dermatologist for any suspected lesion as early as possible. Don’t try to diagnose it yourself just by following ABCDE rule.