When It's Not Just a Mole

How can you tell if that mole on your arm is cancerous? For years, doctors have taught the ABCD rule: A mole may be melanoma if it is assymetrical; the borders are irregular (not smooth); the color varies; or the diameter is larger than that of a pencil eraser.

Now, the dorctors at New York University School of Medicine who invented the ABCD rule say we should add an E for evolving. They reviewed a number of studies to make sure the test still works. It does. But they also determined that some skin cancers change over time - in size, shape, color and symptoms such as bleeding or itching. In two studies, more than 70% of lesions evolved in people diagnosed with melanoma. Adding E will help get the message to patients, who often spot the cancer first.