A mole that is not dangerous is usually quite symmetrical, has regular borders, has an even colour throughout and is less than 6mm in diameter (the size of the back of a pencil).

How to detect a melanoma

The ABCD of moles

See your dermatologist if the following changes are noticed in a mole

A    Asymmetry

B    Border irregularity

C    Colour change

D    Diameter > 6mm

See your dermatologist every 6 months for a check up.  Rather safe than sorry!

A melanoma is a dangerous skin cancer.  With early detection, it can be removed completely and is 100% curable.  However, if detected late, the tumour could spread to other parts of the body.

For pictures and more information, see Melanomanet in the website of the American Academy of Dermatology.

 

What happens if your dermatologist suspects a melanoma?

If a melanoma is suspected, the tumour is cut out with a narrow margin.  The tissue is sent to the laboratory for analysis.  If the lab analysis confirms a melanoma, then, depending on its depth, a second incision is made with a wider margin.  This two-step removal prevents unnecessary removal of tissue in case the suspected tumour turns out not to be a melanoma.

Mimickers of melanoma

A Seborrhoeic keratosis may be pigmented and may superficially resemble a melanoma.  However, its dull, lustreless, warty surface, its stuck on appearance and its yellowish crusting differentiate it from a melanoma.  It can be easily removed by means of liquid nitrogen or electrocautery.

Dermoscopy

Sometimes a mole looks a little suspicious but not enough to remove it.  In these circumstances, your dermatologist my photograph the mole using a skin surface microscope.  The image can then be compared a few months down the line.  Any change would necessitate removal of that mole.

To read about other non-cancerous growths, click here.

Please note that this site provides information only.  Consultations are not offered by e-mail.

© Dr N Raboobee 2010