The ABCDE Rule for Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. It occurs when DNA damage is left unrepaired, causing mutations that prompt skin cells to multiply and form malignant tumours rapidly (1). If you notice a blemish on your skin and are unsure whether it could be skin cancer, there’s a useful system to help you determine if you should reach out to a doctor. It’s known as the ABCDE rule for skin cancer.
What is the ABCDE Rule for Skin Cancer?
The ABCDE rule is an easy-to-remember guide that helps differentiate between benign moles and potentially cancerous ones. Each letter stands for a key feature of melanoma detection.
A for Asymmetry
A normal mole is symmetrical, meaning that if you draw a line through it, both halves will appear identical. In contrast, a cancerous mole is often asymmetrical, with one half differing from the other and irregular shapes may indicate the presence of melanoma.
B for Border
A normal mole has smooth, even, and well-defined edges. On the other hand, cancerous moles, such as melanomas, typically have irregular, blurry or jagged borders. If a mole’s outline is poorly defined or spreads unevenly into the surrounding skin, it should be evaluated by a doctor.
C for colour
A normal mole is typically a single, uniform colour, usually brown or tan. In contrast, cancerous moles like melanomas often exhibit multiple colours or uneven pigmentation, including shades of black, brown, red, white, blue or grey.
D for Diameter
A normal mole is usually small, typically less than 6mm in diameter (about the size of a pencil eraser). While melanoma can sometimes be smaller, it often grows larger than 6mm. If a mole appears bigger than this or keeps growing, it could be a determining factor for skin cancer.
E for evolving
A normal mole stays the same over time, maintaining its size, shape and colour. However, if a mole begins to change, whether it’s growing larger, altering its shape, or colour, becoming itchy, bleeding, or developing a crust. These changes could signal (2,3,4).
Additional Warning Signs of Skin Cancer
While the ABCDE rule is a valuable tool, some melanomas may not fit neatly into these criteria. Other signs that may indicate skin cancer include:
- A new mole that appears after the age of 30.
- A sore that doesn’t heal or keeps reopening.
- The ugly duckling sign is when a mole looks distinctly different from the other moles on your body.
- A mole that itches, bleeds, oozes, or is raised compared to the surrounding skin.
- A mole that feels painful, tender, or raised compared to the surrounding skin.
Finally
The ABCDE rule is a simple but powerful tool for identifying moles that could be cancerous. Regularly checking your skin and staying alert to any warning signs can help you detect melanoma in its early stages, significantly increasing the chance of successful treatment and recovery. If you notice any changes in a mole, whether it's size, shape, colour, or texture, it’s essential not to wait. Seek medical advice right away by scheduling an appointment with a dermatologist. Early detection is crucial to improving outcomes, and catching skin cancer early can make all the difference in treatment success. Remember, your skin is your body’s largest organ; give it the care it deserves.
By: Bamlak Agegnehu (RN/ BMgt)
Edited by: Damilola Elewa
Additional Read;
Comments (0)