BEAUTY & COSMETIC SURGERY
If moles could talk… W
e often notice moles on our skin – some have been with us since birth while some make an appearance overnight. But what exactly are these spots and what are the key things to keep in mind? In this article we uncover – what is a mole and when to be concerned? To start of, let’s understand what a mole really is; a mole (or melanocytic naevus) is the term applied to a lesion on the skin made up of a cluster of cells called melanocytes (pigment cells).
Spot the difference Moles can differ in shapes, size and colour. Most moles are brown, but they vary from flesh coloured to brown or blue and sometimes black. Most people have moles and some people have more than others. They can affect any part of the body. Most are formed before the age of 20, but some people can develop new moles well into their 30s or beyond.
Vigilance is key The vast majority of your moles are benign (non cancerous) and never cause any trouble. However, a small number may change and have the potential to become a cancerous mole (malignant melanoma). So, if you notice any changes in your mole, be it: • the size or colour or shape • if it itches • is painful or bleeds • if new nodules develop within or around it • or it looks red and inflammed the mole should be checked by a dermatologist and removal considered.
Examining that treacherous spot If you observe changes in your mole, you need to see a dermatologist. The mole should be removed if there are concerns that a melamoma could be developing. Moles can either be: • Benign (non cancerous) – most moles are harmless • Dysplastic - these are thought to be precancerous moles that have the potential to become malignant melanomas. Although many of them will not become cancerous it important that they are closely monitored for change in size, shape, colour and symptoms such as itching or bleeding, and removal considered by a dermatologist. • Malignant melanoma – these moles have developed into a skin cancer. 214 FEBRUARY 2020
Early detection of melanoma is so important! Malignant melanomas (cancerous moles) have the ability to spread around the body. The earlier they are diagnosed the better. Like any other cancer it is important that people who have had malignant melanomas are treated by a multidisciplinary team of specialists which includes a dermatologist, plastic surgeon, oncologist and a skin pathologist.
Crucial check ups Some groups of people should be regularly checked for abnormal moles. These include people who have had a malignant melanoma in the past or have a family history of melanoma, people who have fair skin or red hair and those with a large number of moles (dysplastic naevus syndrome). People who have had considerable sun exposure, particularly with episodes of severe sunburn when young, or have used sunbeds, should get their moles checked regularly. Avoid use of sunbeds. Sunbed use is a high risk activity that can cause malignant melanoma. Remember prevention is always better than cure. So stop and take a look at your moles and see what your moles are trying to tell you and whether you need to get your moles checked by a dermatologist.
Dr Eleanor Mallon Consultant Dermatologist 108 Harley Street
The Details 108 Harley Street Skin Clinic 108 Harley Street London W1G 7ET To book an appointment contact our team on 0207 563 1234 info@108harleystreet.co.uk For further information, visit us at www.108harleystreet.co.uk Photo by Catherine on Unsplash