The ABCD's for early detection of melanoma A is for asymmetry Most benign moles tend to be symmetric. Melanomas, on the other hand, tend to be asymmetrical. B is for border Benign moles usually have a very clear-cut border.
Early melanomas tend to have a notched, irregular or indistinct border.
C is for color While benign moles can be light or dark, they typically have a uniform color. In contrast, early melanomas have an uneven color. D is for diameter Most melanomas, in addition to the ABC characteristics, have a diameter greater than 6 millimeters.