Melanocytic moles or nevi result from the grouping of melanocytes, the cells that give color to the skin. They are a normal finding in humans and usually appear throughout life, starting in childhood and continuing into young adulthood. Although they are physiological formations of the skin, due to their higher concentration of cells and the changes they undergo in their evolution, they have a certain risk of degeneration to skin cancer (melanoma).
Melanoma is a cancer whose incidence has increased dramatically in recent years, especially in young people. It is aggressive, with a rapid tendency to invade deep structures and spread to other organs of the body (metastasis). In this sense, it should be noted that the primary aspect to reduce these phenomena is early diagnosis.
For these reasons, it is essential to have a regular check-up of moles, and even more so depending on their sun habits, personal and family history. In any subject, it is strictly mandatory, at least, to have an annual control of moles with their dermatologist. Their appearance and evolution will be assessed. Depending on the type of moles and the person’s history, the periodicity should be every three or six months.
Dermatology currently uses a diagnostic tool called dermoscopy in which a manual or digital device is used for the observation at high magnification and polarized light of the pigment of the moles. The analysis of the distribution of the pigment of the moles allows us to assess whether its structure is homogeneous and regular, or if it presents changes suggestive of malignancy or future risk of malignancy. Periodic screening with dermoscopy allows the early diagnosis of malignant and pre-malignant skin lesions, improving their prognosis. It is a harmless test for the patient.
→ To learn more about digital dermoscopy check-ups, you can go here and make an appointment.
Lee JB, Hirokawa D. Dermatoscopy: an overview–Part I: nonmelanocytic lesions. Skinmed. 2010 Sep-Oct; 8(5):265-72.
Zalaudek I, Manzo M, Savarese I, Docimo G, Ferrara G, Argenziano G. The morphologic universe of melanocytic nevi. Semin Cutan Med Surg. 2009 Sep; 28(3):149-56.
Zalaudek I, Docimo G, Argenziano G. Using dermoscopic criteria patient-related factors for the management of pigmented melanocytic nevi. Arch Dermatol. 2009 Jul; 145(7):816-26.