What does the ABCDE rule stand for in melanoma assessment?

• A. Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolution
• B. Asymmetry, Border, Contour, Diameter, Elevation
• C. Appearance, Border, Contour, Diameter, Evolving
• D. Age, Basal, Dermal, Epithelial

Answer: (A)

The main concept is using the ABCDE rule to screen pigmented lesions for melanoma risk. A lesion is considered suspicious if it shows certain features that can evolve over time.

Asymmetry means one half of the lesion does not mirror the other half, suggesting irregular growth. Border refers to edges that are jagged, uneven, or poorly defined rather than smooth. Color involves variation within the same lesion, such as multiple shades of brown, black, tan, or even red or blue—uniform color is less worrisome. Diameter captures the guideline that lesions larger than about 6 mm are more concerning, though melanomas can be smaller. Evolution (or change) highlights any alteration in size, shape, color, or symptoms like itching or bleeding over time.

This combination—Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter enlargement, and Evolution—is why that answer is the best. Other options mix in terms not part of the standard mnemonic (such as contour or elevation) or use unrelated concepts (appearance, age, basal/dermal/epithelial) that don’t align with the established screening pattern.