Which term describes a skin cancer most likely to have irregular borders and multiple colors?

• A. Melanoma
• B. Basal cell carcinoma
• C. Seborrheic keratosis
• D. Verruca

Answer: (A)

Irregular borders with multiple colors are hallmark features of melanoma, a malignant tumor arising from pigment-producing melanocytes. The variation in color (shades of brown to black, and sometimes red, tan, or blue) reflects heterogeneity in the tumor and changing pigment production as it grows, while irregular, notched edges indicate invasion into surrounding skin rather than a uniform, benign growth.

This pattern helps distinguish melanoma from other skin conditions. Basal cell carcinoma often looks pearly or translucent with a rolled or raised border and less color variation. Seborrheic keratosis has a waxy, “stuck-on” appearance with uniform color. Verruca (wart) tends to be rough and hyperkeratotic, usually not multi-colored or irregular in border in the same way melanoma is. Recognizing color variation plus border irregularity should raise concern for melanoma and lead to prompt evaluation and biopsy if indicated.