What is a mole?
A mole is a benign collection of melanocytes. Melanocytes or pigment-producing cells in our skin. Moles usually appear as regular brown spots of varying sizes. Their colour can range from.
What are the types of moles?
Moles can be divided into congenital or acquired moles. Congenital moles are present at birth or develop within 6 months after birth. Congenital moles can be further subclassified according to their sizes into small, medium and large congenital moles.
Acquired moles can develop at any point in our lives. They are usually classified according to which level of the skin the melanocytes (cells forming moles) are found. For example, deeper moles with melanocytes in the middle layer of the skin (dermis) are called intradermal melanocytic naevi. These are usually raised and may have hairs growing out from them.
Why are mole checks necessary?
Moles are small, coloured spots on the skin. Most moles are harmless. Most harmless moles are round or oval-shaped, with a smooth edge. Sometimes, they may have hairs growing out of them.
Some moles can be a sign of melanoma (a type of skin cancer). Any unusual, new or changing mole, freckle or skin growth requires medical attention. A simple way to remember the warning signs is to remember the A-B-C-D-Es of melanoma
- “A” stands for asymmetrical. Does the mole or spot have an irregular shape with two parts that look very different?
- “B” stands for border. Is the border irregular or jagged?
- “C” is for colour. Is the colour uneven?
- “D” is for diameter. Is the mole or spot larger than 6mm?
- “E” is for evolving. Has the mole or spot changed during the past few weeks or months?
What is the treatment for moles?
Most moles are harmless and do not need any treatment. Some moles that are changing or have an unusual appearance or symptoms may have to be removed for further examination. This can be done by excision or a shave biopsy.
Moles can also be removed for a cosmetic indication. Laser or surgical mole removal by excision is possible. Be sure to confirm that the mole is benign before having it removed by laser.
