Final answer:
Dysplastic nevi are classified using the ABCDE mnemonic, which helps in diagnosing potential early-stage melanoma by examining asymmetry, borders, color, diameter, and evolution of the mole, with nodular melanoma showing additional signs such as being elevated, firm, and growing.
Step-by-step explanation:
To classify dysplastic nevi, dermatologists and medical professionals often refer to the ABCDE mnemonic to help diagnose potential early-stage melanoma, which is a serious form of skin cancer. This mnemonic stands for:
- Asymmetry - the two sides of the mole are not symmetrical
- Borders - the edges of the mole are irregular in shape
- Color - the mole displays varied shades of brown or black
- Diameter - the mole is larger than 6 mm (0.24 inches)
- Evolving - the shape, size, or color of the mole has changed over time
For the most serious form, nodular melanoma, additional signs include:
- Elevated - the mole is raised on the skin surface
- Firm - the mole feels hard when touched
- Growing - the mole is increasing in size
Understanding these signs is crucial in identifying if a growth is a mole or potentially cancerous. At the end of learning this chapter, students will know more about the different types of skin cancer and how to identify them.