When does a mole become dangerous? What things to watch out for? The ABCDE method can help to understand if we are facing a melanoma.
We all, some more than less, have moles scattered around the body, but how many are concerned about their state of health? A mole can tell us a lot, especially if it changes shape or size over time. It is in these cases, in fact, that that mutated spot becomes an alarm bell. But how to tell if a mole is dangerous?
Always, but especially for some phototypes, it is absolutely recommended to pay particular attention, since some moles could turn into melanoma. For this it is necessary to know in depth the map of your skin, to examine them constantly and, in certain cases, to contact a dermatologist with a precise deadline.
If, in fact, the moles that are defined as “normal” are generally small in size and are formed by micro skin growths of brown color, they are flat or raised, rounded and regular in shape, the so-called “malignant” ones can be easily recognized. If they take a different and jagged, irregular shape, change color, grow and itch, it is essential to go to a dermatologist.
One way to identify a melanoma in advance is through the “ABCDE” technique of the mole, which shows which signs are possibly cancerous.
How to tell if a mole is malignant
The precancerous formations of melanoma can be identified with a periodic check of the skin moles. A useful method that everyone can keep in mind is the abbreviation ABCDE: A as shape asymmetry, B as irregular edges, C as variable color, D as diameter, E as evolution. In general, congenital moles, i.e. those found on the skin since birth, are rounded, have a homogeneous color and do not undergo changes over the years.
It is obvious that once you have found even one of those anomalies, it is good to undergo a full examination, which will also include a biopsy. In addition to the change in appearance, the following are also signs of melanoma:
bleeding
itch
dryness of a pre-existing mole
The ABCDE method
Asymmetry (A)
In general, benign nevi are spherical and symmetrical, while a dangerous mole does not have a definite shape: if it is ideally divided into two parts, the two parts are not equal
Irregular edges (B)
A normal mole has a clear and well-defined border, while a mole that points to skin cancer has a fuzzy and uneven outline. The lines are not continuous and it is not possible to clearly define where it starts, starts and ends
Uneven color (C)
Normal moles have a single uniform and homogeneous color, but if there is a combination of several colors at the same time such as coffee, black and, sometimes, with white and reddish areas, it is a sign of risk
Diameter (D)
Most moles measure between 2 and 3 millimeters. If they grow more than 6 millimeters in diameter, they could be dangerous. This feature is considered the most important when a malignant mole is detected
Evolution (E)
Generally, moles grow slowly and stop when they are already an adult. However, those that are malignant usually appear unexpectedly and grow rapidly. In the case of a pre-existing mole, this change is usually fast, in weeks or months
The early diagnosis of melanoma is not easy, it is therefore good to undergo periodic checks by the dermatologist and implement the correct prevention strategies.
Rules of proper sun exposure
To avoid the degeneration of moles, in addition to specialized checks, you can put in place all those good rules regarding the correct exposure to the sun:
Expose yourself to the sun in the cooler hours of the day
Use a sunscreen with a filter suitable for your skin type
Use the hat (especially for those who have little hair or are bald)
Avoid lamps and sun beds
However, a periodic check-up by the dermatologist is recommended for a mapping of the moles. The early diagnosis of melanoma is not easy, it is therefore good to undergo periodic checks of your moles and implement the correct prevention strategies.
Germana Carillo – Greenme.it