Moles (Nevi) Mapping

What exactly are moles (nevi) and how are they created?

Nevi, also known as moles, are accumulations of modified melanocytes located in the epidermis or deeper in the dermis (its underlying layer). They appear from birth and later up to the age of 25 and increase along with the body’s growth. They can be flat or have the form of nodules, with a size varying from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. The giant nevi (moles) may have a very large size. Number of moles and their type depends on genetic factors (heredity), while another factor in their appearance is the exposure to the sun.

What changes should I look out for in their appearance and how often should I examine them?

The risk of developing melanoma in either a pre-existing nevus or a new one depends on heredity, history of UV exposure especially during childhood, skin phototype (lighter skin types have a greater risk than darker skin types) and number of dysplastic nevi. (dysplastic = nevi (moles) with an increased risk for melanoma). Moles should be checked by a dermatologist once a year or more often if there are increased risk factors. Self-examination every 3 or 4 months is useful in order to early diagnose a possible change in the characteristics of nevi (moles).

When should I be concerned and how does a mole (nevus) turn into melanoma?

The nevi (moles) characteristics that are detected by the patient are changes in size, contour, color, and symmetry of existing nevi (moles). In general, if there are any changes of the above characteristics or if there is spontaneous bleeding or persistent itching of the mole, the patient should visit a dermatology. The patients should also be concerned when new nevi (moles) appear.

Is it safe to remove a mole (nevus)? When should we proceed with such operations?

It is at the judgment of the dermatologist whether a mole should be either monitor or excised. The surgical excision is recommended if clinically or on dermatoscopic examination there is a risk of malignancy in the future. Surgical excision is absolutely safe when the nevus (mole) is completely removed and excludes the possibility of the (specific) nevus to turn into melanoma.

What can I do to prevent take melanoma?

Prevention is the best way to deal with malignancies like melanoma. The avoidance of the unnecessary sun exposure to (ultraviolet radiation (sun+solarium)) is mandatory and should start from childhood. Sunscreen is not enough when the exposure to the sun is long. Extra precautions should be taken and sunburns should be completely avoided. Also, regular self-examination and a visit to the dermatologist once a year can be crucial for early diagnosis.

What is Mole (Nevi) Mapping?

Mole mapping is a method of digital recording of dermoscopic images of nevi (moles) with a special camera. The system saves the images to software for future monitoring. It is also possible to measure the dimensions of the nevi (moles) as well as their individual characteristics (vascularization, color, network, etc.).

In future examination of the nevi (moles) and comparison with previous mappings, if changes are found, their removal or closer monitoring should be appropriate.