What Is the ABCD Rule for Malignant Melanoma?

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By Victoria Ries
eHow Contributing Writer

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Melanoma is a malignancy of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. The irregularity may start off looking as if it is just a mole; however, it grows over time into an odd-looking, misshapen, multicolored presence that doesn't go away. Skin cancer, like most cancers, may be deadly if not treated; however, it is highly treatable if caught early. Check your body regularly for odd-shaped moles. If any are discovered, immediately see a health professional for a checkup. Follow the ABCD Rule for malignant melanoma set forth below.

Types

Take note of the ABCD Rule for malignant melanoma. If you recognize these signs anywhere on your body, see a health care professional immediately.

A stands for asymmetry: The mole, birthmark or other type of blemish anywhere on your skin is not symmetric (same on both sides).

B for border: The border of the mole or birthmark is ragged, notched, irregular or blurred.

C for color: The mole or blemish is multicolored, consisting of brown, black, red, blue or white in varying shades and patterns.

D for ciameter: The mole or blemish is more than ¼ inch (6mm) across in size.

Identification

Monthly body checks will alert any changes in pigment of moles or new "moles" that appear. Stand in front of a mirror minus your clothes and remember the ABCD Rules. Look carefully for any abnormalities on your skin. Use a hand mirror to check your back and other body parts you can't easily see. Incidence of malignant melanoma among men appearing on their backs is high and the area should be checked regularly.

Significance

While melanoma accounts for 4 percent of all skin cancers, malignant melanoma causes the greatest number of skin cancer--related deaths worldwide, according to Dr. Susan M. Swetter, director of the Pigmented Lesion and Cutaneous Melanoma Clinic. Catching it early will decrease your mortality rate. Early childhood exposure to severe sunburn blisters increases one's risk later in life to developing malignant melanoma, as does having a fair complexion. Family history of malignant melanoma also increases your risks, as does old age.

Geography

Geographic location lends itself to an increased incidence of malignant melanoma such as Florida, Arizona and other locations where "fun-in-the-sun" activities are actively encouraged. Sunscreen should be applied to the face and body regularly while exposed to the sun and after swimming or excessive sweating. Reduce the number of hours you are out in the sun and wear a hat and clothing with a tight weave to minimize effects of exposure.

Benefits

Exposure to one hour of sun per day is conducive to good health and actually increases intelligence, according to Dr. Joseph Mercola with the International Alliance for Animal Therapy and Healing. Babies that have their days and nights mixed up benefit from an hour's sun exposure in the shade with sunscreen applied to exposed areas of their body, to reset their body clocks and sleep through the night.