Moles are common skin growths formed by clusters of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. Most people have between 10 and 40 moles, which typically appear during childhood and adolescence. While the vast majority of these spots are harmless, some can change over time and indicate the presence of skin cancer. Recognizing the signs that warrant a medical evaluation is the most reliable way to ensure early detection.
The ABCDE Guide to Self-Examination
The ABCDE method is a standardized system dermatologists use to help people evaluate their moles during self-examinations. The letter ‘A’ stands for Asymmetry, which means one half of the mole does not match the other half in shape or appearance. A noncancerous mole is usually relatively symmetrical, meaning both sides look similar if an imaginary line is drawn through the middle.
The letter ‘B’ represents Border, which is suspicious if it appears irregular, notched, scalloped, or poorly defined. A typical benign mole generally has smooth and well-defined edges. ‘C’ stands for Color, and a mole is concerning if it shows multiple colors or an uneven distribution of shades, including variations of black, brown, tan, red, white, or blue.
The letter ‘D’ refers to Diameter, and moles larger than 6 millimeters, roughly the size of a pencil eraser, should be viewed with suspicion. Although some serious lesions can be smaller, a diameter greater than this measurement is a common characteristic of concern. Finally, the letter ‘E’ is for Evolving, which is often considered the single most significant indicator. This refers to any noticeable change in the mole’s size, shape, color, or elevation over a period of weeks or months.
Urgent Symptoms and Contextual Triggers
Beyond the visual criteria of the ABCDE guide, certain physical symptoms or contextual factors should prompt an immediate consultation with a healthcare provider. A mole that begins to bleed, ooze, or crust without having been scraped or injured suggests a change in the skin’s structure that requires prompt investigation. Similarly, any mole that causes persistent pain, tenderness, or intense itchiness should be evaluated, even if it appears visually normal.
The appearance of a new mole in adulthood, particularly after the age of 30, is a relevant contextual trigger. While moles typically develop earlier in life, research indicates that a significant percentage of skin cancers may arise from spots that appear entirely new later on. Individuals should also pay close attention to moles located in areas that are difficult to see, such as the scalp, the soles of the feet, or between the toes.
A personal history of skin cancer or a strong family history of melanoma significantly increases an individual’s risk level. People in this category should maintain a heightened awareness of any skin changes and adhere to a regular professional screening schedule.
What Happens During a Professional Skin Check
A professional skin check usually begins with a thorough examination of your skin from head to toe. You will be asked to wear a gown so the doctor can inspect all areas, including the scalp, palms, and soles of the feet. The provider will also ask questions about any symptoms, your family history, and sun exposure.
To examine suspicious spots more closely, the doctor will often use a handheld magnifying device called a dermatoscope. This instrument provides a bright, magnified view of the mole’s subsurface structures, which helps distinguish between benign spots and potentially cancerous lesions and improves the accuracy of the examination.
If a mole appears concerning after the visual inspection, the next step is typically a skin biopsy. This procedure involves removing a small tissue sample, often after numbing the area, to be sent for microscopic analysis. The biopsy is the only way to definitively determine if cancer cells are present. Individuals at higher risk may be advised to schedule professional skin checks annually or more frequently.