Skin tumours mnemonic

Features suggesting melanoma

The mnemonic

ABCDE

What each word stands for

  • AAsymmetry
  • BBorder irregularity
  • CColour variation
  • DDiameter more than 6 mm
  • EEvolving, changing over time

Why it matters clinically

Used for screening pigmented lesions.

Where it stops being reliable

Nodular melanoma may be symmetrical and small; the rule is not diagnostic.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Skin tumours mnemonic?

ABCDE. It helps you recall: Features suggesting melanoma.

What does "A" stand for?

Asymmetry

What does "B" stand for?

Border irregularity

What does "C" stand for?

Colour variation

What are all the parts of the ABCDE mnemonic?

A: Asymmetry; B: Border irregularity; C: Colour variation; D: Diameter more than 6 mm; E: Evolving, changing over time.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Skin tumours in Dermatology.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Nodular melanoma may be symmetrical and small; the rule is not diagnostic.

How is this useful clinically?

Used for screening pigmented lesions.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Dermatology question about Skin tumours.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.