Fight skin cancer with 'ABCDE'

mark · Joined: 16 Jan 2006 Posts: 188

So called 'birth marks' or just 'marks' occur in period between 6th and 12th month of baby's life and their number increases by the end of adolescence. Then marks slowly start to disappear, but certain marks can also appear later in life. Total number of marks is directly connected with level of sun exposure before the age of 12, especially if sun exposure is followed by sun burns. Most marks symbolize skin changes that are not dangerous. However, some can develop into malignant melanoma.
Useful algorithm for estimation of pigmented changes on skin is so called ABCDE rule , which includes:
A (asymmetry): regular mark has symmetrical shape, which is usually round, oval and similar
B (border): regular mark has clear and sharp edge; irregular borders are elongated or have dull borders
C (color): occurrence of color changes or presence of several colors in mark is not normal
D (diameter): mark with diameter, larger than 6 millimeters, followed by fast growth in period of 3 months
E (elevation, enlargement): elevation or enlargement of previously symmetrical mark

Besides these parameters, occurrence of mark bleeding or ulceration is an important sign person should immediately seek for medical help. Clinical examination of mark's condition is done by dermatologist (skin specialist).

luna · Joined: 06 Feb 2006 Posts: 230

Hey Mark,

This is definitelly useful and very educative post!
...but how many people really searches for changes on their skin... for start - not me Confused

i guess people's nature is tricky- only when something (horrible) happens we start to think what we did wrong and what could we've done... but until then we do nothing... well, at least most people.

However, i do not want to discourage you to write more posts like that Wink