Final answer:
A raised lesion larger than 1 cm with variable coloration or irregular borders is likely to be melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, and is characterized using the ABCDE mnemonic.
Step-by-step explanation:
A raised lesion that is larger than 1 cm and is either the same or a different color than the surrounding skin, particularly one that has an irregular border and parts that appear red, white, blue, or blue-black, often indicates melanoma. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer and forms from the uncontrolled growth of melanocytes. To help identify early-stage melanoma, doctors use the ABCDE mnemonic, which stands for Asymmetry, Borders, Color, Diameter, and Evolving. A lesion that fits these criteria, such as being asymmetrical, having irregular borders, varied colors, and a diameter larger than 6 mm, and is evolving, should be evaluated by a medical professional immediately.