Which color pattern is associated with melanoma?

Which color pattern is associated with melanoma?

• A. multishades of blue/black
• B. brown
• C. pink
• D. yellow

Answer: (A)

Color variation within a pigmented lesion signals melanoma. Melanoma arises from melanocytes and often shows irregular pigmentation because melanin is distributed unevenly at different depths, producing multiple hues such as brown and black, with blue or gray tones in parts of the lesion. This color heterogeneity is a classic clue that raises concern for melanoma more than a uniform color. A uniform brown lesion is more typical of benign moles, while pink or yellow coloration is not characteristic of melanoma and suggests other processes or conditions.

Color variation within a pigmented lesion signals melanoma. Melanoma arises from melanocytes and often shows irregular pigmentation because melanin is distributed unevenly at different depths, producing multiple hues such as brown and black, with blue or gray tones in parts of the lesion. This color heterogeneity is a classic clue that raises concern for melanoma more than a uniform color.

A uniform brown lesion is more typical of benign moles, while pink or yellow coloration is not characteristic of melanoma and suggests other processes or conditions.