## **Core Concept**
The patient's presentation suggests a skin lesion that has undergone significant changes, raising concern for malignancy. The description of a macule that has doubled in size over the past year and is becoming darker on one side is highly suggestive of melanoma, a type of skin cancer. The **ABCDE rule** (Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variegation, Diameter >6mm, Evolving) is a useful tool for assessing skin lesions for potential melanoma.

## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The best next step for a skin lesion suspected to be melanoma is to perform a **biopsy**. Given the lesion's size (7mm in diameter), change in size and color, and the patient's age, a biopsy is crucial for histopathological examination to confirm the diagnosis. This procedure involves removing a sample of tissue from the lesion for examination under a microscope to determine if cancer cells are present.

## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** This option is blank and cannot be evaluated.
- **Option B:** This option is also blank and cannot be assessed.
- **Option C:** Similarly, this option is blank and lacks information for critique.
- **Option D:** This option is blank as well, making it impossible to discuss its merits.

## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key clinical pearl is the **ABCDE rule** for evaluating skin lesions:
- **A**symmetry
- **B**order irregularity
- **C**olor variegation
- **D**iameter >6mm
- **E**volving over time

Lesions with these characteristics should be considered for biopsy to rule out melanoma.

## **Correct Answer:** . Biopsy