Moles that change color and shape may indicate skin cancer

If you observe that the moles on your body are increasing and you think that these moles have changed color and shape, you should definitely consult a dermatologist.

The number of moles may vary based on genetics or sun exposure.

Moles are usually harmless changes of the skin. They are known as “melanocytic nevus” in medical language and develop as a result of proliferation of pigment cells called “melanocyte” (cells that give color to the skin). Moles can be flat or raised. Their color ranges from pink to brown and black. While moles may be present at birth, they usually develop in childhood. Moles may disappear on their own over time or may appear later. This situation is accepted as the natural process of moles.

It is known that a number of factors play an important role in the transformation of a mole into cancer. The first of these factors is the sun. For this reason, the risk of moles on our body turning into cancer in the summer is much higher. Sudden and high doses of sun rays are very effective on moles. In particular, moles containing dark melanin carry a higher risk.

The color and shape of moles is important.

Congenital moles are seen in 1% of babies. They can range in size from a few millimeters to cover very large areas of the body. Especially very large ones have the possibility of developing into a skin cancer called melanoma. Some moles are surrounded by a white ring. These types of moles are seen in childhood and adolescence. They do not have any damage and over time, the mole and white ring in the middle disappear. Sometimes discoloration can also be seen in skin cancer called “melanoma”. If this is suspected, a biopsy is recommended.

Watch out for large moles with irregular edges!

Unusual moles are known as “Clark nevi”. These moles appear abnormal. Its margins are irregular, large in size, often indicative of skin cancer. It is surgically removed even though it is not necessary due to its anxiety-inducing appearance. People with unusual moles are in the risk group, especially if they have a family history of skin cancer.

Regular doctor check-up is important

Melanoma is cancer that arises from the pigment (dye) cells of the skin. If a mole changes its size, shape or color, or if a new mole appears in adulthood, it must be examined by a dermatologist. Dermatologists can enlarge the image of moles with the “dermatoscopy” method and can also take a biopsy if necessary. If there is a possibility of cancer, if the structure of a mole is irregular, spreading towards the environment and changing its color, it should be treated. If the mole is in areas where clothes, comb and razor blades can damage it, it is recommended to be removed to avoid trauma and irritation.

You can get rid of moles easily and painlessly

A raised mole from the skin can be easily treated by shaving a biopsy method. After the skin is numbed with local anesthesia, it is removed with a surgical blade or cautery. The wound begins to heal, leaving a solid white patch. In the surgical method of removing the mole, it is used if the mole is flat or if there is a suspicion of skin cancer, which we call melanoma. The mole on the skin is removed in its full thickness, and then sutured. The removed mole is sent for pathological examination. A scar is left in the form of a thin line at the surgical site. The hairs on the moles can be shaved. Removing it with tweezers can cause painful swelling under the mole.

To protect yourself from the risks that your moles may cause;

A monthly personal skin examination is important. A dermatologist should be consulted when changes are seen in moles or a new mole is noticed.

If the person has multiple moles and has a previous history of skin cancer, regular check-ups should be made.

If there are many moles and unusual moles, it may be useful to record with photographs.

Relationships with the sun should be adjusted correctly and sunscreen products should be used. Sunscreens with a protection factor of 30 or higher should be applied to areas that are frequently exposed to the sun.

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