Moles occur naturally on the skin. These small clusters of pigmented cells appear as spots on the skin’s surface that are darker than your usual skin tone. On average, you may have around 10 to 40 moles in various parts of your body by the time you reach your adulthood. Some moles may disappear over time, while others may undergo changes that can lead to melanoma, which is a type of skin cancer. If you are concerned with a certain mole in your body a skin clinic in Singapore can help diagnose whether it can lead to melanoma. This article lists down the ABCDEs of what to look out for.
The ABCDE rule for identifying melanoma in moles
Dermatologists recommend using the ABCDE method to identify moles that may potentially develop into cancer. This mnemonic is simple, but its effective framework is highly dependable for assessing new moles or those that show changes on your skin.
A is for Asymmetry
Moles that appear symmetrical are usually benign or non-cancerous. To check whether a mole passes this criteria, draw an imaginary line through the middle of the mole and see if both sides are nearly identical. If one half of the mole does not appear like the other, then this asymmetry could be a sign that the mole is cancerous. Have your mole evaluated by a skin clinic in Singapore.
B is for Border
Non-cancerous moles are typically well-defined and have smooth edges that separates it from the skin around it. On the other hand, a mole that appears irregular, scalloped and has jagged borders should be brought in a skin clinic for a thorough assessment as these are concerning cancer symptoms.
C is for Color
A normal and healthy mole is usually in a single shade of brown or tan, while a harmful one may show different colours, such as brown, black, blue, red, tan, or white. Moles that have one or more colours present within it should raise the red flag and be urgently seen by a medical professional.
D is for Diametre
A cancerous mole can be smaller, but a lot of this type often measure more than 6 millimetres, which is about the size of a pencil eraser during diagnosis. Moles can grow over time and if you notice one that surpasses the benchmark of 6mm, have it examined by a skin doctor.
E is for Evolving
An evolving or changing mole should raise the alarm as this is one of the most important signs of melanoma. Note any changes in colour, elevation, size, or shape. These significant changes require immediate medical care.
Other Signs to Consider
Aside from the ABCDE rule, a cancerous mole may also:
- Bleed or ooze
- Crust or scab
- Itch or feel tender
Additionally, take note of any new moles that develop when you are already past the age of 30 as these are more prone to turn cancerous. Likewise, any pigmented spots around an existing mole is a warning sign of melanoma, so have them checked.
What are the risk factors for melanoma?
The risk for developing melanoma varies between individuals. Some have higher risks due to factors, such as genetics and environment. These include:
- Exposure to sun: Blistering or severe sunburns that occurred particularly during your childhood is considered as a major risk factor for melanoma.
- Family history of melanoma: Your genes play a key role in the possibility of developing the disease.
- Fair skin, freckles, and light hair: Skin that produces less melanin has poor natural ability to protect itself from the harmful rays of the sun.
- Having atypical moles: Moles that are large and irregular in shape doubles up your risk.
- Having many moles: The existence of many moles in your body levels up the likelihood of melanoma.
- Weakened immune system: A suppressed immune system due to certain medications or medical conditions, such as HIV, can elevate your risk.
How to perform a self-examination
Detecting the early signs of melanoma is crucial and this can be done by understanding your own skin. A monthly self exam can help you identify changes in any of your moles. Do a regular check on them by following these steps:
- Use a full-length and a handheld mirror and find a private place with good lighting
- Begin by checking your head and neck. Use your handheld mirror to check your scalp and the area at the back of your ears.
- Next, move on to your torso. Take a closer look at your chest, abdomen, and back.
- Examine your arms and hands. See if there are any new developments at the back and front of your arms, hands, palms, and the areas in between your fingers.
- Assess your legs and feet. Observe your skin from the front to the back of your legs, from the top of your feet to the soles, including the areas of skin in between your toes.
- Do not forget the genital areas. Using your handheld mirror, check the condition of your skin around your buttocks and genital area.
Use the ABCDE rule to examine each mole and document any unusual findings by taking a photo, so you may track any further changes over time.
When to visit a skin clinic in Singapore
If you see any concerning symptoms after a self examination, it is advisable that you set an appointment with a skin clinic in Singapore immediately. A skin doctor can help diagnose your mole through a thorough skin assessment and other tests. A dermoscopic exam may be recommended to reach an accurate diagnosis. This test uses lighting and magnification to better observe the structure of your skin.
A mole that appears suspicious usually undergoes a biopsy. This additional exam takes a sample of the mole and sends it to a lab for microscopic analysis. A pathologist then examines the specimen and determines whether it is benign, precancerous, or malignant.
How are cancerous moles treated?
The treatment of a mole that has been diagnosed as melanoma depends on the stage it is in. For early-stage, the mole and a small margin of the skin and tissue around it is removed through surgery. For melanomas that are advanced, treatments like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation, or lymph node removal may be recommended. Early detection of cancerous moles improves your survival rate.
Conclusion
Having moles should not cause any worry, but it is important that you are aware of the possibility that these can develop into a dangerous disease. Knowing the ABCDE rule and applying these during your monthly self-examinations can help you keep your mind at peace or seek urgent medical attention when needed. Recognising the signs of melanoma early can allow you to get timely treatment from a skin clinic in Singapore and improve your skin’s health.
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The Derm Clinic – Dr Uma Alagappan
321 Joo Chiat Pl, #05-01A
Parkway East Specialist Hospital,
Singapore 427990
Phone: +65 6517 9760
