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Pathology · single question

Which feature of a pigmented (melanocytic) nevus is LEAST concerning for malignant change?

  1. The borders are changing or becoming irregular
  2. It becomes darker after sun exposure
  3. The lesion is asymmetric
  4. There is variation in color within the lesion
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. It becomes darker after sun exposure

  • A. Border irregularity is the 'B' of the ABCDE criteria (Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolving) and IS concerning.
  • B. CORRECT — this is LEAST concerning. Benign nevi commonly darken with ultraviolet exposure because normal melanocytes increase melanin production. Uniform, reversible darkening with sun exposure is physiologic, not a malignancy signal.
  • C. Asymmetry is the 'A' criterion and IS concerning for melanoma.
  • D. Color variegation — multiple shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue within one lesion — is the 'C' criterion and IS concerning.

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