When it comes to our health, it is always important to be proactive and keep an eye on our moles, especially if there is a family history of mole-related skin cancer. Mole screening can help in the early detection and treatment of melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer.
Moles are normal skin growths that form when pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) grow in clusters and appear as small, dark spots or sometimes flesh-coloured bumps on the skin. Moles can be different colours, shapes and sizes.
Only about 1 in 100 people have moles at birth. These so-called congenital melanocytic nevi are often larger than the acquired moles that develop after birth, which typically appear in childhood and early adolescence.
A skin test is the best way to detect skin cancer early, as the earlier skin cancer is identified, the easier it is to treat. In a well-lit room, undress completely and check your whole body with the help of a full-length mirror. In hard-to-see areas, use a hand mirror or ask someone to help you.
Skin cancer symptoms are not always the same but there are some signs to look out for, such as:
Normal moles usually look similar, so if you notice a new or changing patch, seek medical attention as it is difficult to tell whether something on your skin is a harmless mole, sun damage or a sign of cancer.
It is important to self-examine regularly and adults should have an annual screening with their dermatologist even if no suspicious lesions are detected during a home screening.
Risk factors for skin cancer include:
A dermatologist can perform the examination with the naked eye to diagnose moles, but a 2018 study found that visual examination alone may not be sufficient to detect melanoma, but that negative cases were more likely to be correct when combined with dermoscopy, according to another study.
A dermoscope is a handheld device with a light source and magnifying glass. Videodermoscopes can magnify the image of the skin surface by about 70 to 100 times so that a doctor can assess whether a particular lesion is benign, questionable or malignant. In this way, appropriate treatment can be started in time, sometimes involving the removal of the mole. Dermatoscopes can also take pictures so that doctors can later compare any changes in the skin surface to detect abnormalities as soon as possible.
Make an appointment for a mole screening with a video dermoscope with the excellent dermatologists at Wáberer Medical Center, or call us at +36-1-323-7000 to have your examination performed at our well-equipped clinic in Buda without a long wait.
