Mole check
Safety through early skin cancer detection
Moles (nevi) are harmless in most cases, but they can change over time and pose a risk for skin cancer. Approximately one-third of all melanomas—also known as malignant melanoma—develop from existing pigmented moles. However, a melanoma can also develop on normal skin without a pre-existing mole. It is important to monitor changes in moles and consult a dermatologist if you suspect a change. Regular mole checks are crucial for early detection and timely treatment.
Table of Contents
- What is a mole check?
- Why are regular checks so important?
- Risk factors for abnormal moles
- Procedure for mole check
- Image documentation & digital progress monitoring
- Decision: Remove or observe?
- ABCDE rule for self-monitoring
- For whom are regular check-ups particularly important?
- FAQ
1. What is a mole check?
A mole check is a comprehensive examination of all pigmented moles on the body by a dermatologist.
During this process, moles are assessed with regard to:
- form
- Color
- structure
- symmetry
- possible changes
The aim is to detect suspicious findings early and prevent the development of skin cancer.
2. Why are regular checks so important?
2. Why are regular checks so important?
- Melanomas can develop from moles or occur spontaneously.
- Changes are often difficult for laypeople to recognize.
- Melanomas detected early have very high cure rates.
- Even harmless moles can change over time.
INFOBOX: Moles are dynamic structures; they can grow, darken, or change shape. A medical examination ensures that these changes are correctly interpreted.
3. Risk factors for unusual moles
3. Risk factors for unusual moles
- Dermoscopic examination: All moles are examined using a special epiluminescence microscope.
- Documentation and monitoring: If any abnormalities are detected, pigmented moles are photographed. This allows changes to be closely observed over time.
- Surgical removal: yes or no? A decision is made regarding the targeted removal of conspicuous moles.
4. Procedure for mole checks
4. Procedure for mole checks
- Painless, non-invasive examination
- Early detection of skin cancer and therefore timely treatment
- Safety and clarity regarding unclear or suspicious skin changes
- Reducing the risk of skin cancer through close monitoring
- After the examination, the doctor can also specify a follow-up interval. This way, you know whether you belong to the high-risk patient group or not.
During mole checks, we also explain which signs (color, shape, etc.) to look for during self-examination. See also the ABCDE rule.
5. Digital Documentation & Progress Monitoring
5. Digital Documentation & Progress Monitoring
Suspicious moles are photographed and stored. This allows the dermatologist to accurately compare changes over months or years.
Advantages:
- highest safety in melanoma detection
- early detection of even the smallest changes
- objective progress monitoring
- Avoiding unnecessary surgeries
6. Decision: Remove or observe?
6. Decision: Remove or observe?
The examination is completely painless and low-risk. For reliable skin cancer prevention, regular checkups every 1-3 years are recommended. This will be explained by the doctor after the examination and depends on the number of moles, sun exposure in childhood, and the patient's/family's history of skin cancer. For high-risk patients, such as those with dysplastic nevi, we recommend checkups every 6 months.
7. ABCDE rule – Assessing moles yourself
7. ABCDE rule – Assessing moles yourself
During mole checks, we also explain which signs (color, shape, etc.) to look for during self-examination. See also the ABCDE rule.
Remember: Every change counts more than appearance alone.
8. For whom are mole checks particularly important?
8. For whom are mole checks particularly important?
- People with many moles
- People with a family history of the disease
- Patients with abnormal nevi
- People with light skin
- People with high UV exposure
- Patients with previously removed melanomas
After the examination, the doctor determines how often check-ups are recommended (e.g. annually, every 6 months or more often).
Conclusion
Conclusion
Is a mole check painful?
No, it is completely pain-free.
How often should I have my moles checked?
Depending on the risk, every 1–3 years; for high-risk patients, every 6 months.
What happens if a mole looks suspicious?
It will either be removed or regularly digitally monitored.
Can I assess moles myself? Yes, using the ABCDE rule, but it does not replace a medical examination.
Conclusion
Conclusion
Regular mole checks offer maximum safety and protect against advanced stages of skin cancer. Modern diagnostics such as dermoscopy and digital monitoring allow for a precise assessment of your moles, ensuring healthy skin in the long term.