The general rule of ABCDE applies when trying to identify
whether a mole is possibly related to skin cancer. However, this kind of
identification is only convenient to the naked eye and may not be accurate. Further laboratory
tests, skin biopsy and skin examination has to be done by a qualified skin dermatologist
and pathologist to correctly identify whether a mole has cancerous cells.
A – Asymmetry. Asymmetry shows that a mole is a possible
cancer when one half of the mole takes a different shape, texture or form.
B – Border. Cancerous moles tend to have borders which are
not regular.
C – Color. Cancerous moles do not have consistent
color. Most often, cancerous moles have
different gradients of colors and are not even throughout the mole.
D – Diameter. Cancerous moles tend to have large diameters. Moles with
diameters that are larger than a pencil’s eraser are more likely to be
cancerous.
E – Evolving. Moles that grow and show continuous sign of
changing shape have higher possibility to be skin cancer.
Below is a diagram showing examples of normal skin moles (left) and skin moles that are
cancerous (right).
Is Skin Cancer Curable?
Yes, skin cancer is curable if found in its early stages. There are various treatment options available in the market, among a few are listed in the websites below. Though the results of different treatment may vary, it usually takes at least a combination of 3 kinds of expertise to be involved in the process of treatment, the dermatologist, the pathologist, and the oncologist. Some may even want to consult skin surgeons for second opinions.
Skin Cancer Treatment options:
http://www.webmd.com/melanoma-skin-cancer/detection-treatment-skin-cancer
http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/cancer-help/type/skin-cancer/treatment/which-treatment-for-skin-cancer
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