Melanoma ABCDE Criteria
ABCDE checklist for clinical evaluation of suspicious pigmented lesions. Positive features prompt urgent dermatology referral.
Score interpretation
0–1 features: Low suspicion for melanoma
→ Reassure; advise patient to monitor and return if any change; annual skin check if multiple naevi
2–3 features: Moderate suspicion
→ Routine dermatology referral; dermoscopy; document with photography
≥4 features: High suspicion for melanoma
→ 2-week wait urgent dermatology referral; do NOT biopsy in primary care; advise sun protection; photograph lesion
Interpretation bands for the Melanoma ABCDE. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Friedman RJ, et al. The continued importance of early detection of melanoma. CA Cancer J Clin. 1991;41(4):201-226.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Duke Criteria for Infective Endocarditis · Diagnosis
- Sgarbossa Criteria for MI in LBBB · Diagnosis
- 2023 Duke-ISCVID Criteria for Infective Endocarditis · Diagnosis
- PASI — Psoriasis Area and Severity Index · Diagnosis
- DLQI — Dermatology Life Quality Index · Diagnosis
- EASI — Eczema Area and Severity Index · Diagnosis
- Chlorhexidine gluconate with isopropyl alcohol · Skin antiseptic
- Chlorhexidine with cetrimide · Skin antiseptic / wound cleanser
- Barrier creams and ointments · Topical skin protectant
- Cetuximab · Anti-EGFR Monoclonal Antibody — Head and Neck Cancer
- Cisplatin · Platinum Chemotherapy — Head and Neck Cancer
- Chlorhexidine · Antiseptic / disinfectant (bisbiguanide)
- Suspicious Pigmented Lesion — Melanoma Pathway · NICE NG14 2015 / BAD
- Cellulitis and Erysipelas · NICE NG141 2019 / CREST
- Psoriasis — Severity Assessment and Step-Up Therapy · NICE NG153 2019 / BAD
- Atopic Eczema — Assessment and Step-Up Therapy · NICE NG95 2023
- Urticaria and Angioedema · BSACI / EAACI Guidelines 2022
- Acne Vulgaris — Grading and Treatment · NICE NG198 2021 / BAD
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.