haematology dermatology
ABCDE Criteria for Melanoma Recognition
ABCDE (Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter > 6 mm, Evolving) is a recognition aid for melanoma (Friedman 1985; E added by Abbasi 2004), not a validated score — an evolving lesion is suspicious on its own. In the UK, NICE NG12 refers a suspicious pigmented lesion on a suspected cancer pathway when the weighted 7-point checklist scores 3 or more, or when dermoscopy suggests melanoma.
References
- Friedman RJ, et al. Early detection of malignant melanoma: the role of physician examination and self-examination of the skin. CA Cancer J Clin. 1985;35(3):130–151.
- Abbasi NR, et al. Early diagnosis of cutaneous melanoma: revisiting the ABCD criteria. JAMA. 2004;292(22):2771–2776.
- NICE NG12. Suspected cancer: recognition and referral. 2015 (updated). Recommendations on melanoma (weighted 7-point checklist).
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
Drugs
- Chlorhexidine gluconate with isopropyl alcohol · Skin antiseptic
- Chlorhexidine with cetrimide · Skin antiseptic / wound cleanser
- Barrier creams and ointments · Topical skin protectant
- Risedronate Sodium · Bisphosphonate
- Zoledronic Acid · Bisphosphonate (IV)
- Denosumab · RANK Ligand Inhibitor (Anti-resorptive)
Pathways
- Major Haemorrhage / Massive Transfusion · BCSH; RCOA; RCEM; RCS — BCSH Guidelines
- Anaemia Investigation · BSH / NICE
- Splenomegaly Workup · BSH; BMJ Best Practice
- Deep Vein Thrombosis Diagnosis and Treatment · NICE CG144 / NICE NG158
- Sickle Cell Crisis · BSH 2021 / BCSH
- Neutropenic Sepsis · NICE CG151 2012 / ESMO
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.
