Moles are common skin growths that appear as small marks on the skin. They form when pigment-producing cells, known as melanocytes, grow in clusters. While most moles are harmless, monitoring them for changes is important for skin health. Moles typically develop during childhood and adolescence.
Specialists Who Check Moles
A dermatologist is the primary medical professional to consult for mole concerns. Dermatologists specialize in skin conditions, including detecting and diagnosing skin cancers like melanoma. They use tools such as dermoscopy to examine moles in detail, often revealing features not visible to the unaided eye.
General practitioners (GPs) can also perform initial screenings for suspicious moles. GPs can conduct visual examinations and discuss an individual’s skin cancer risk factors. If a GP identifies a mole of concern, they will refer the individual to a dermatologist for further assessment.
Reasons for Professional Mole Examination
Professional mole examinations are important for the early detection of skin cancer, especially melanoma. Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that can develop from existing moles or appear as new spots. Early detection of melanoma leads to a high chance of successful treatment, with a five-year survival rate for early-stage cases often around 99%.
Regular checks help identify subtle changes in moles that might indicate early skin cancer. This proactive approach can reduce the need for more invasive treatments. Individuals with many moles, a history of significant sun exposure, or a family history of skin cancer particularly benefit from these examinations.
Identifying Moles of Concern
Self-monitoring moles is a practical step for personal skin health awareness. The ABCDE method offers a structured way to identify potentially problematic moles during self-examinations. This method helps in recognizing signs that warrant a professional medical evaluation.
The ABCDE Method
Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
Border: Moles have irregular, notched, or blurred edges.
Color: Moles show varying shades of tan, brown, black, or areas of red, white, or blue.
Diameter: Moles are larger than about 6 millimeters (the size of a pencil eraser).
Evolving: Any change in a mole’s size, shape, color, elevation, or new symptoms like itching or bleeding over time.
The Professional Mole Check Process
During a professional mole check, individuals can expect a thorough visual examination of their entire skin surface. The dermatologist will typically ask about any specific moles of concern and your medical history. This comprehensive check includes areas not easily seen by the individual, such as the scalp, back, and between the toes.
Many dermatologists use a handheld dermatoscope to magnify and illuminate moles for a closer look. This tool allows for a detailed view of the mole’s structure and color patterns beneath the skin’s surface, aiding in the differentiation between benign and suspicious lesions. If a mole appears suspicious, the doctor may perform a biopsy, removing a small sample for microscopic analysis. Different types of biopsies, including shave, punch, or excisional, may be used depending on the mole’s characteristics. The removed tissue is then sent to a lab where a pathologist examines it to determine if cancer cells are present.