How is melanoma diagnosed?
More than twenty years ago, a group of dermatologists from New York University proposed a method to help doctors and patients determine whether or not a particular mole or lesion might be cancerous. This method is known as the ABCDE’s of melanoma: A — Asymmetry B — Border C — Color D — Diameter E — Evolution All moles and lesions will slowly change with time. Some will become larger or more pronounced after approximately 10 or 20 years. However, if the mole or lesion grows too fast, starts to bleed, ooze or itch, it often signals that something is wrong. These changes should be evaluated by a dermatologist immediately, as early diagnosis can lead to a cure.
