Mole Examination: Why It's Important, How It's Done and Treatment Methods

Mole examination is extremely important for the early diagnosis of skin cancer and other skin diseases. Moles are generally harmless; however, in some cases, they can show a cancerous transformation. Especially moles that appear newly or change on the skin should be carefully examined by a dermatologist. Adana dermatologist Specialist Dr. Hatice Coşkun Güngördü provides professional service to her patients to minimize the risk of skin cancer with regular examination and follow-up of moles. In this article, you can find detailed information about the importance of mole examination, how it is done and possible treatment methods.

1. What is a Mole?

Moles (nevus) are spots that are usually brown, black or skin-colored, formed by the accumulation of pigment cells called melanocytes in the skin. Most moles are harmless and do not change over time. However, some moles can grow, change shape and color over time, and increase the risk of developing skin cancer. Regular examination of moles is very important for early diagnosis of potentially dangerous conditions.

2. Why is Mole Examination Important?

Although moles are usually harmless, some carry the risk of turning into skin cancer. Melanoma is one of the most dangerous types of skin cancer, and melanoma usually develops on moles. Therefore, if a new mole appears or a change is noticed in an existing mole, it should be examined by a dermatologist.

Reducing the Risk of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is more common, especially in people who are exposed to the sun a lot. Regular examination of moles is critical for early diagnosis of skin cancers such as melanoma. Early diagnosis increases the chance of treatment and prevents the spread of cancer.

Detecting Sudden Changes

A mole that grows larger, changes in color, has irregular edges, or exhibits symptoms such as itching and bleeding may be signs of malignant transformation. When such changes are noticed, it is important to have it evaluated by a dermatologist.

3. Which Moles Are Dangerous?

Most moles are harmless, but some can turn cancerous over time. Dangerous moles are usually irregularly shaped, have multiple colors, and grow rapidly. To detect potentially dangerous moles, dermatologists use an evaluation method called "ABCDE rule":

• A - Asymmetry: If one half of the mole is different from the other half, this may be a warning sign.
• B - Border: If the borders of the mole are irregular, unclear or indented, attention should be paid.
• C - Color: If the color of the mole is not uniform, that is, if the mole contains black, brown, white or blue tones, this can be risky.
• D - Diameter: The diameter of the mole is 6 If it is larger than mm (about the size of a pencil eraser), caution should be exercised.
• E - Evolving: This is important if there is a change in the size, shape, color or surface of the mole over time.

It is recommended that moles that meet these criteria be monitored at regular intervals and examined with a biopsy when necessary.

4. How is Mole Examination Done?

Mole examination usually begins with a physical examination by a dermatologist. In Adana, Specialist Dr. Hatice Coşkun Güngördü evaluates the structure of moles using dermoscopy and other advanced methods for detailed examination of moles. The mole examination is performed in the following steps:

Physical Examination

The doctor evaluates whether there is an abnormality by examining the size, shape, color and surface texture of the mole. The number of moles and where they are located on the body are also recorded.

Dermoscopy

Dermoscopy is a detailed mole examination method performed by a dermatologist. A special device called Dermoscope is used to perform imaging that goes down to the lower layers of the mole. In this way, the structure of the mole is analyzed in more depth and malignant changes can be detected at an early stage.

Biopsy

If a mole is suspected to be cancerous, a doctor may perform a biopsy. During this procedure, all or part of the mole is removed and sent to the laboratory for pathological examination. If cancer is detected according to the biopsy results, additional treatment methods are applied.

5. Do Moles Need to Be Removed?

Not every mole needs to be removed. However, dermatologists recommend removing moles in some cases. Specialist Dr. Hatice Coşkun Güngördü provides safe and minimally invasive methods for removing dangerous or disturbing moles.

Skin Cancer Suspicion

If a mole is at risk of being cancerous, it is recommended that the mole be completely removed by biopsy or excision. This is a critical step to prevent the spread of cancer.

Aesthetic Reasons

Some patients may choose to have their moles removed due to cosmetic concerns. Large or noticeable moles, especially in visible areas such as the face, can be aesthetically disturbing. In this case, the doctor will ensure that the mole is removed safely.

Irritant Moles

Moles that are frequently in contact with clothing or accessories or that are irritated can cause discomfort over time. Removal of these moles can increase the patient's comfort.

6. Mole Removal Methods

Various methods are used to remove moles. Adana Specialist Dr. Hatice Coşkun Güngördü provides safe and effective results by determining the most appropriate method according to the needs of her patients. Common methods used to remove moles are:

Surgical Excision

In this method, the mole is surgically cut under local anesthesia. If the mole is at risk of cancer, the doctor may remove the entire mole and the surrounding healthy skin tissue. After excision, stitches are usually placed and a small scar may remain.

Shave Excision

Shave excision is a method used for moles close to the upper surface of the skin. During this procedure, the mole is shaved from the upper layer of the skin and removed. This method, which usually does not require stitches, is suitable for superficial moles.

Cryotherapy (Freezing Treatment)

Cryotherapy is a method of freezing the mole using liquid nitrogen. It is an effective method especially for superficial and small-sized moles. After cryotherapy, the mole dries up and falls off.

Laser Mole Removal

Laser treatment is used especially for small moles that will be removed for aesthetic reasons. Laser beams vaporize and eliminate the mole cells. This method minimizes the risk of scarring and offers a rapid healing process.

7. Things to Consider After Mole Removal

After mole removal, it is important to follow some care recommendations to prevent the wound from becoming infected and scarring. Uzm. Dr. Hatice Coşkun Güngördü offers the following suggestions to speed up the healing process and prevent complications after mole removal:

• Pay attention to wound care: Cover the wound as recommended by the doctor and keep it hygienic.
• Protect from the sun: Protecting the area where the mole was removed from the sun reduces the risk of scarring. High-protection factor sunscreens should be used.
• Avoid scratching: Avoid scratching the area during the healing process. The itchy area may become infected or the healing process may be delayed.

8. The Importance of Early Diagnosis in Mole Examination

Regular examination of moles is critical for early diagnosis of skin cancer. Skin cancer is a treatable disease, especially when detected in the early stages. Specialist Dr. Hatice Coşkun Güngördü offers comprehensive solutions to protect the skin health of her patients and minimize possible risks with regular mole examinations.

Specialist Dr. Hatice Coşkun Güngördü in Adana offers reliable service to her patients with her expert approach in mole examination and follow-up. You can contact our clinic for regular control of your moles and get detailed information.