Understanding the ABCDEs of moles and when to get checked.
Most people have common skin growths called Moles or ‘nevi’. Most moles are harmless, but some can develop into melanoma, a very serious form of skin cancer. If melanoma is detected early enough, it will massively improve the success of treatment. Early detection can be done by understanding the ABCDEs of moles.
Why should you monitor moles?
Regularly monitoring your moles is essential for early detection of melanoma. While it’s normal for moles to vary in appearance, significant changes or unusual features can be warning signs of skin cancer. The ABCDE rule provides a simple, effective method for evaluating moles and identifying those needing medical attention.
The ABCDEs of Moles
A – Asymmetry
This refers to when one half of the mole is different and does not match the shape of the other half. This can be checked by drawing an imaginary line through the middle of the mole. If the two sides don’t match up, then this will be classed as asymmetrical and could be a sign of melanoma.
B – Border
Border examination examines the edges of the mole. Non-cancerous moles usually have smooth, even borders. However, a cancerous mole often has irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined borders. A healthcare professional should check any mole with uneven or ragged edges.
C – Color
Color involves the mole’s pigmentation. While benign moles are generally a single shade of brown, a mole with multiple colors or an uneven distribution of color can be a warning sign. Different shades of tan, brown, black, red, white, or blue within a single mole may indicate melanoma.
D – Diameter
Diameter focuses on the size of the mole. While melanomas are usually larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser), they can start smaller. It’s important to note that size alone doesn’t determine the risk; small moles can also be melanoma. However, any growth in size warrants attention.
E – Evolving
Evolving is the most critical factor. Any change in a mole’s size, shape, color, elevation, or new symptoms such as bleeding, itching, or crusting, should prompt a visit to a dermatologist. Moles that evolve are more likely to be cancerous.
Checking your moles and getting further help
Routine Self-Examinations
Performing regular self-examinations can help you notice changes in your moles early. Aim to check your skin once a month in a well-lit room using a full-length mirror and a hand mirror for hard-to-see areas. Familiarize yourself with the pattern of moles, freckles, and other marks on your skin so you can detect changes.
Professional Skin Examinations
While self-exams are beneficial, you should also schedule annual skin checks with a dermatologist. This will provide you with a more thorough test and check-up. If you have a family history of skin cancer or severe sunburns, it should be considered to book skin checks more frequently, as these factors will mean you have a higher risk.
Immediate Concerns
If you notice any of the ABCDE warning signs, do not wait for your annual check-up. Make an appointment with a dermatologist immediately. Early detection of melanoma significantly improves the chances of successful treatment.
Understanding the ABCDEs of moles is a crucial step in the early detection of melanoma. Regularly monitoring your moles and seeking medical advice when you notice any changes can help protect yourself from the serious consequences of skin cancer. Prioritize routine self-examinations and professional check-ups to maintain skin health and catch potential problems early.
Advice was taken from the American Acadamy of Dermatology – more information can be found here: https://www.aad.org/