The clinical features of malignant melanoma

The clinical diagnosis of malignant melanoma requires the following: an acceptance of the concept of "in situ" malignancy, both clinically and histologically; a high index of suspicion concerning any pigmented lesion; recalling the mnemonic "remember your A,B,C,D's"; and a knowledge of the clinical simulators of malignant melanoma. Prevention of death from malignant melanoma is possible through early diagnosis and prompt treatment of thin lesions (less than 0.76 mm in thickness). Such lesions have an excellent prognosis. This goal can be reached by carefully designed and implemented professional and public education programs such as those that have been introduced in Australia, West Germany, and the United States. Currently, new programs are being developed jointly by the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Cancer Society that are aimed at promoting self-examination of the skin as an adjunct to a routine physician examination as an additional means of detecting malignant melanoma at a time when it is wholly curable.