Which statement about the ABCDE mnemonic for skin cancer assessment is correct?

• A. Asymmetry
• B. Border irregularity
• C. Color changes
• D. Diameter greater than a pencil eraser

Answer: (D)

The ABCDE approach to skin cancer screening includes five warning signs: asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, diameter greater than about 6 mm, and evolution (change over time). The statement about diameter being greater than a pencil eraser is the best-highlighted part because it provides a concrete, measurable criterion that prompts closer evaluation or biopsy. While asymmetry, irregular borders, and color changes describe qualitative features to look for, the diameter threshold gives a specific size cue clinicians use to flag lesions for urgent assessment. Remember, melanomas can occur with various sizes, and evolution over time is also important, but diameter >6 mm is the explicit, actionable criterion in the mnemonic.