What are Moles (Nevus)?

Moles (nevi) are formations that are usually brown or skin-colored and are formed by the accumulation of pigment cells called melanocytes in the skin.Each person may have different numbers and types of moles.However, some moles may pose a risk for skin cancer when they change shape, color, or size over time.Therefore, dermatoscopic examination and regular follow-up of moles are of great importance..


 

What is a Dermatoscopic Examination?

Dermatoscopic examination of moles is used to examine structural details that cannot be noticed with the naked eye. dermatoscopeIt is done with a device that has a special magnifying glass and light system calledThis device allows detailed visualization of the pigment distribution under the skin, vascular structure, and lesion border characteristics..

  • During the dermatoscopic examination, if necessary, the image of the mole is recorded using digital dermatoscopy.
  • Thus, any changes that may occur in the future (color, size, shape) can be compared and followed.
  • Thanks to this method, benign (benign) and suspicious (atypical or malign) moles are distinguished from each other, serious skin cancers such as melanoma can be detected in the early stages.

 

The Importance of Me Tracking

Although most moles are harmless, some moles may develop cellular changes over time.When these changes are not noticed early, malign melanomaThere is a risk of developing into the most dangerous type of skin cancer calledMole monitoring should be done regularly, especially for people in the following risk groups::

  • People with many moles (more than 100)
  • Individuals with a family history of melanoma
  • People with fair skin, freckles, or skin types that sunburn easily
  • Those with new, rapidly growing, itchy or bleeding moles
  • People with a history of solarium use

It is recommended that these people undergo a dermatoscopic examination under the supervision of a dermatologist at least once a year..


 

Melanoma Risk Factors

The most important environmental factor in the development of melanoma is excessive exposure to UV rays..

  • Severe sunburns, especially during childhood, significantly increase the risk of melanoma in later life.
  • The UVA rays used in tanning beds are more intense than sunlight and can cause DNA damage in skin cells. Therefore, long-term tanning bed use is a risk factor for melanoma and other skin cancers.

 

What is Mole Mapping (Nevus Mapping)?

If the doctor deems it necessary after the dermatoscopic examination, mole mapping is performed.In this process:

  • All moles on the body are examined one by one with a dermatoscope,
  • Photos are saved in digital media,
  • The location of each mole is mapped and its changes over time are tracked.

Mole mapping is one of the most effective follow-up methods for early-stage melanoma detection, especially in individuals with numerous moles..


 

Removal of Suspicious Moles

Moles with suspicious features detected during dermatoscopic examination are removed with a minor surgical procedure..

  • During the procedure, the area is numbed with local anesthesia, the mole is completely removed and sent to the laboratory for pathological examination.
  • Moles that are cosmetically bothersome, frequently traumatized, or rubbed by clothing can also be safely removed using the same method.
  • However, regardless of the reason for removal, every mole should be sent to pathology.

 

Laser Mole Removal Applications

Real me (nevus Laser treatment is not recommended for structures containing cells.

  • Because after laser application, the tissue cannot be sent for pathological examination.
  • Additionally, moles may recur due to cells remaining in the deep layers, and deep laser applications may increase the risk of scarring.

However, dermatoscopically proven to be benign, age spots (seborrheic keratosis), superficial skin protrusions or vascular moles (cherry hemanjiomlar) can be safely removed for aesthetic purposes with a carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser.

Regular monitoring of moles is vital in maintaining skin health and early diagnosis of skin cancers.If you have new, growing or discolored moles, it is strongly recommended that you consult a dermatologist..