Asymmetry (A)
If you draw a line through the middle of a mole and the two halves do not match, this is a sign of asymmetry. Most benign moles are symmetrical, so asymmetry can be a red flag for melanoma.
Border (B)
The borders of an early melanoma are usually uneven, notched, or scalloped. Benign moles typically have smoother, more even borders.
Color (C)
Melanomas often contain multiple colors such as shades of brown, black, or even patches of red, white, or blue. Benign moles are usually a single shade of brown or tan.
Diameter (D)
Melanomas are usually larger in diameter than benign moles, often greater than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser). However, they can be smaller when first detected.
Evolving (E)
Any change in size, shape, color, or elevation of a mole, or any new symptom such as bleeding, itching, or crusting, can be a warning sign of melanoma.
