ABCDE melanoma criteria

Dermatology

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Clinical evidence

No numerical formula — risk is graded by the number of criteria present (0–5): A asymmetry, B border irregularity, C colour variation, D diameter >6 mm, E evolving change.
  • Sensitivity 65–80%, specificity 70–80%
  • Early detection can raise 5-year survival above 98%
  • Most effective combined with total-body skin examination
  • Friedman RJ, Rigel DS, Kopf AW. CA Cancer J Clin 1985;35:130-41
  • Thomas L et al. (1998) — addition of 'E' criterion
  • Abbasi NR et al. (2004) — ABCDE validation

About the creator

The ABCD criteria were first described by Friedman, Rigel and Kopf in 1985; the 'E' (Evolving) criterion was added by Thomas et al. in 1998.

Friedman RJ et al. CA Cancer J Clin 1985;35:130-41; Thomas L et al. (1998) added 'E'

AskCPG — Malaysian Clinical Practice Guidelines