Moles
The ABCDE's of moles and melanoma are a clever reminder of the characteristics you should be aware of in the detection of skin cancer.
- Asymmetry - A benign mole is usually not asymmetrical. If you draw a line through the middle the two sides will match, or be symmetrical.
- Border - A benign mole has smooth, even borders, unlike the irregular borders of early melanoma.
- Color - Most benign moles are all one color, often a single shade of brown.
- Diameter - Benign moles usually have a smaller diameter and are typically smaller than a pencil eraser.
- Evolving - Common, benign moles look the same over time. Be on the alert when a mole starts to change or evolve in any way, or if you develop what appears to be a new mole.
