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The ABCD's of Melanoma

From Heather Brannon, MD,
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About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Kate Grossman, MD

ABCD Defined

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Melanoma is the most deadly of all skin cancers. An estimated 46,000 Americans will develop melanoma every year, and 7,700 Americans will die from melanoma every year.

Skin Self-Examination

It is important to know how to recognize the early warning signs of melanoma. You should examine your skin frequently to get used to the appearance of your moles. Instructions on how to do a skin self-examination can be found here.

The ABCD's of Melanoma

Follow the ABCD's above to identify any abnormal moles. This article will walk you through the ABCD's step-by-step with examples of normal moles and melanoma.
  1. ABCD Defined
  2. Asymmetry - Normal Mole
  3. Asymmetry - Melanoma
  4. Border - Normal Mole
  5. Border - Melanoma
  6. Color - Normal Mole
  7. Color - Melanoma
  8. Diameter - Normal Mole
  9. Diameter - Melanoma

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Updated: May 21, 2007
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