Moles
A mole (Latin: naevus) is a congenital or acquired skin cell cluster of melanocytic origin. A mole can be seen with a naked eye only when it reaches respective size and amount of pigment.
Signs
Light-brown and black-and-brown spots and stains of various sizes
Stains rising or non-rising over the skin surface
The surface of a birthmark is smooth or rough, with or without hair
How to protect oneself against moles and what is their cause?
The nature of origin of moles is not clear. Naevi (or genetic predisposition to their occurrence) are inherited; therefore, it is not possible to be protected against them. It is recommended to spend on the sun as little time as possible and to use high sun protection factors (SPF).
What can be done about moles at one’s discretion?
Nothing is permitted to be done at one’s own discretion. It is prohibited to scratch, irritate, or treat moles with any ointments. It is recommended to observe the moles on the body from time to time in order to check whether their appearance has changed or not.
When should one see the doctor?
If the mole is an old one, does not change at all, and you have shown your moles to a dermatologist or oncologist at least once, it is not necessary to see the doctor again unless the mole is not acceptable due to cosmetic reasons or it is constantly injured (is pressed or rubbed by the collar or bra). However, if new, changing mole appear or the old one begins changing its size, shape, and colour, it should become a concern. Sometimes, even most innocent changes of a mole are very important for the early detection of melanoma.
What should be done if cancerous changes of the mole occur
There are certain warning signs that allow suspecting possible cancerisation. In case of one or several of such changes, it is necessary to see the dermatologist or oncologist immediately.
- Expansion of the mole
- Change of the colour of the mole
- Occurrence of tongue-like projections of the mole
- Occurrence of a red rim around the mole
- The mole or the tissue around it begins to itch, moisture or pain
- Liquid or blood exudes from the mole
- New, dark mole occur to an adult
Siascopy – digital examination of moles
In the Era Esthetic Laser Dermatology Clinic, a detailed digital examination (dermatoscopy, siascopy) is performed. Siascopy is the spectrophotometric analysis of the skin. This advanced comprehensive non-invasive method of examination of naevi and other pigmental formations of the skin carried out with MoleMate equipment.
The siascop determines the dermatoscopical picture of the formation (the real appearance, colours, and external structure of the skin formation), distribution of haemoglobin, melanin, dermal melanin and collagen by presenting a three-dimensional view of the formation to a depth of up to 2 mm.
After the dermatoscopical and siascopical examination is completed, the oncologist analyzes the appearance and structure of the scanned formations. Changes in pigmental formations even at an early stage of cancerisation are determined on the basis of the results of the precise evaluation of the data obtained. Early diagnostics and control of melanoma (one of the most aggressive malignant neoplasms of the skin) and other pigment formations of the skin are also performed. Given timely detection, melanoma and other malignant neoplasms of the skin can be successfully cured surgically. Therefore, their early diagnostics is critical.
Visual information is saved and stored in electronic media. This is especially important when observing suspicious formations, changes in their structure, in the course of repeated testing or comparison of data.
How are moles (naevi) removed?
There are various surgical methods:
- Laser removal
- Scalpel blade removal
- Electric knife removal
One should always remember that the treatment method can be selected only by a specialist in a certain field. Therefore, in all unclear cases, it is necessary to see a dermatologist or oncologist, who will recommend the treatment method which is most suitable for you.
To read more about dysplastic naevi and surgical treatment, follow this link.
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