Dermatoscopic examination of moles
Moles are skin changes that everyone has in some form, and they can appear anywhere on the body. They are caused by the accumulation of melanocytes – the cells responsible for producing pigment in our body. Although moles are usually benign growths, some of them can become malignant under the influence of environmental factors leading to melanoma. This is why a dermatoscopic mole examination is an extremely important procedure in preventing malignant skin changes and melanoma, one of the most aggressive forms of cancer.
What is dermatoscopy?
Dermatoscopy is a non-invasive diagnostic method used to closely examine skin changes using a special optical and sophisticated device – a dermatoscope which essentially acts as a magnifying tool. This method enables dermatologists to distinguish melanocytic from non-melanocytic lesions and examination with a dermatoscope is crucial for the early diagnosis of skin diseases. The procedure is completely painless and non-invasive, providing more information than a visual examination with the naked eye. It allows the dermatologist to closely assess the characteristics of a lesion, based on which further treatment or excision of the lesion may be recommended.
What can be detected through dermatoscopic examination?
Dermatoscopic examination allows for more precise differentiation of various types of skin tumors and helps avoid unnecessary procedures when dealing with benign and harmless moles.
Some of the changes that can be detected include:
- melanoma – a malignant skin tumor that arises from pigment-producing cells and is among the most aggressive skin cancers
- other skin tumors – may be benign or malignant growths on the skin
- skin carcinoma
- solar keratosis – rough, reddish or brownish patches that appear due to prolonged exposure to UV radiation
- seborrheic keratosis – a benign tumor typically seen in older age
- dermatofibromas, etc.
You noticed an unusual mole?
Because changes in moles can’t be predicted, regular self-examinations and dermatological check-ups are crucial for identifying potentially dangerous or cancerous moles early. There is also a guideline that can help you recognize and distinguish a normal mole from an atypical one – the ABCDEFG rule (Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Elevation/evolution, Feeling, Growth). According to the above rule, it is important to monitor a mole to see if it changes shape, is asymmetrical or has irregular edges, what its color and size are, is it level with or above the skin, and if it is accompanied by symptoms such as burning, itching, or even bleeding.
So, a mole can be a sign of alarm if it has irregular edges, an asymmetrical shape, or if it changes color, shape, size, or texture:
- pay attention to moles with asymmetrical shapes, where one half looks different from the other
- look out for moles with irregular, scalloped or jagged borders
- look for growths that have changed color, have multiple colors or show uneven pigmentation (moles in black, dark brown, blue, or gray tones or multicolored ones, may be cause for concern)
- watch for moles that change in size, shape, color, and/or texture (new symptoms like itching or bleeding may also appear)
- malignant moles can vary in appearance – some may show all of these changes, while others may only show one or two unusual signs.
Regular dermatoscopic examinations of skin moles enable early detection of melanoma. Remember, when diagnosed in its early stage, melanoma is curable!
Who should get checked?
A dermatoscopic examination of skin moles is recommended for everyone – whether you want to undergo a preventive check-up or you already have a specific concern regarding a change on your skin.
Indications that may suggest a higher risk of developing melanoma include:
- a large number of moles on the body
- a family history of melanoma (someone in the family has had melanoma or another skin cancer)
- individuals with fair skin, light eyes and hair, who are sensitive to sun exposure or have had sunburns in the past
- people with atypical moles
- moles that bleed or itch
- the appearance of a growth that looks different from the rest of the moles
Based on a dermatologist’s recommendation, it may sometimes be necessary to perform digital mole mapping with the FotoFinder device, which allows full-body imaging – monitoring the entire skin and each individual mole, highlighting those that are suspicious.
When should you have a dermatoscopic mole check?
A dermatoscopic examination is recommended once a year, which is also the guideline of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV).
If you’ve noticed an unusual mole or would like to schedule a preventive check-up, our Sv. Katarina Skin & Regenerative Clinic offers professional and personalized care with the latest dermatological equipment. Don’t delay your exam – timely action can prevent unwanted consequences!