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.