How to tell a bad mole from a good one. Types of nevi - photos and descriptions
Instructions
Dermatologists examine moles with a special device. It's called a dermatoscope. This is a powerful illuminated lens that allows you to examine formations on human skin under high magnification. Some dermatoscopes have a camera function that allows you to take pictures.
The first sign of malignancy is the asymmetry of the mole. If you visually divide the mole into two equal parts, it should be completely symmetrical. The two halves must be identical. In suspicious formations right half not symmetrical. For example, one half of a mole may have raised or indented areas. The exception to the rule is congenital birthmarks, which may be asymmetrical.
The second sign of malignancy is a fuzzy edge. Normally, it should have clear and even boundaries. It should be separated from normal skin. If the edge of the formation cannot be accurately defined, if it is blurred, gradually merges with normal skin, or its borders look corroded, then this should alert the specialist.
The third sign of malignancy is uneven coloring of the mole. Normally it should be uniformly colored. If there are inclusions, stripes, dots, areas of dark or lighter color, this is not a good prognostic sign. Often uneven coloring can be determined by eye. And patients come to the dermatologist presenting precisely these complaints.
The fourth sign of malignancy is the large size of the mole. A mole larger than 6 millimeters is considered large. Exceptions to the rule are congenital birthmarks, which can be very large.
Dynamics is a change in the size, color, edge of a mole over a certain time. For example, if 6 months ago the size of the formation was 5 millimeters, and now the mole has increased to 7 millimeters, this should alert you. To monitor the dynamics, it is recommended to photograph moles. It’s even better to apply a ruler to the formation and photograph it against the background of a millimeter scale. Changes in a mole over a certain period of time are one of the most important diagnostic signs.
Moles are congenital or acquired skin defects formed as a result of the proliferation of the pigmented epithelial layer of the skin. That is, a mole is a small formation that rises above the surface of the skin and has different shape and colored in brown or pink-red shades.
Mole - definition and basic properties
Doctors call moles pigmented, melanocytic, melanoform or non-cellular nevi, since according to the mechanism of formation they are benign tumors, originating from normal cells of various skin structures with the obligatory presence of melanocytes (cells that provide the brown or pinkish color of the mole). This means that the main structure of the mole may be formed from cells of the epidermis (outer layer of skin) or dermis (deep layer of skin) that have formed a compact cluster in a small area. In addition to the structure-forming cells of the dermis or epidermis, a mole necessarily contains a small number of melanocytes, which produce a pigment that gives them a different color.Melanocytes are found in the skin of every person, with the exception of albinos, and provide unique color skin pigment production. The pigment produced by melanocytes can vary from pink to dark brown. It is the color of the pigment produced by melanocytes that explains the different skin colors of representatives of different peoples and ethnic groups. That is, if a person’s skin is white, then melanocytes produce a light pink pigment, if the person is dark, then light brown, etc.
The melanocytes that are part of the mole also produce a pigment of their usual color or shade (the same as on the areola of the nipples or labia minora). However, since a mole contains a fairly large number of melanocytes per unit surface area, their pigment appears to be “concentrated,” as a result of which the color of the nevus is much darker than the rest of the skin. Therefore, in dark-skinned people, moles are usually dark brown or almost black, while in people with fair skin, nevi are pinkish or light brown.
Moles can be congenital or acquired. Congenital moles in children are not immediately visible; they begin to appear from 2 to 3 months of age. However, this does not mean that moles begin to form at 2–3 months; they are there from birth, simply because they are very small size they are not visible. Moles grow with a person, increasing in size as the area of the skin increases. That is, while the child is very small, his congenital moles are also tiny and simply not visible. And when he grows up, his moles will increase in size so much that they can be seen with the naked eye.
Acquired moles appear in a person throughout life, and there is no age limit until which nevi can form. This means that new moles can form on a person’s skin until death. The most intensively acquired moles are formed during periods hormonal changes– for example, puberty, pregnancy, menopause, etc. During these same periods, old moles may grow, change color or shape.
Moles are benign neoplasms with, as a rule, favorable course, that is, they are not prone to degenerate into cancer. That is why in most cases they do not pose any danger and do not require treatment. However, in in rare cases moles can malignize, that is, degenerate into skin cancer, and this is precisely their main potential danger.
However, one should not assume that every mole is a potential site of cancer growth, since in 80% of cases, skin cancer develops in an area of normal and untouched skin where there are no nevi. And only in 20% of cases skin cancer develops as a result of malignancy of a mole. That is, a mole will not necessarily degenerate into cancer; moreover, this happens quite rarely, and therefore you should not treat every nevus as a future potential malignant tumor.
Moles – photo
These photographs depict congenital moles.
This photograph shows nevus of Ota.
These photographs show various variants of pigmented moles.
This photograph shows a “scattered” nevus.
This photograph shows a halonevus (nevus of Setton).
This photo shows a blue (blue) mole.
This photograph shows a Spitz nevus (Spitz).
This photo shows blue (Mongolian) spots.
Types of moles
Currently, there are several classifications of moles, distinguishing different types and groups of nevi. Most often in practical medicine, two classifications are used: the first is histological, based on which cells the mole is formed from, and the second divides all nevi into melanoma-hazardous and melanoma-safe. Melanoma-hazardous moles are those that, theoretically, can degenerate into skin cancer. And melanoma-safe are, accordingly, those moles that under no circumstances degenerate into skin cancer. Let's consider both classifications and each type of mole separately.According to histological classification moles are of the following types:
1.
Epidermal-melanocytic moles (formed by epidermal cells and melanocytes):
- Borderline nevus;
- Epidermal nevus;
- Intradermal nevus;
- Complex nevus;
- Epithelioid nevus (Spitz nevus, juvenile melanoma);
- Nevus of Setton (halonevus);
- Nevus of balloon-forming cells;
- Papillomatous nevus;
- Fibroepithelial nevus;
- Verrucous nevus (linear, warty);
- Nevus of the sebaceous glands (sebaceous, seborrheic, Jadassohn's nevus).
- Mongolian spots (Genghis Khan spot);
- Nevus Ota;
- Nevus Ito;
- Blue nevus (blue nevus).
- Dysplastic nevus (atypical, Clark's nevus);
- Pink melanocytic nevus.
- Combined nevus;
- Congenital nevus.
Borderline nevus
A border nevus is formed from a cluster of cells located at the border of the dermis and epidermis. Outwardly it looks like a flat, slightly raised formation or just a spot on the skin, colored dark brown, dark gray or black. Sometimes concentric rings are visible on the surface of the nevus, in the area of which the color intensity changes. The size of a borderline nevus is usually small - more than 2 - 3 mm in diameter. This type moles are prone to degenerating into cancer, so they are considered dangerous.Epidermal nevus
An epidermal nevus is formed from a collection of cells located in the superficial layer of the skin (epidermis) and looks like a raised area. correct form, painted in various colors, from pinkish to dark brown. This type of mole can, in rare cases, develop into cancer, and is therefore considered potentially dangerous.Intradermal nevus
An intradermal nevus is formed from a cluster of cells located in the deep layer of skin (dermis). Externally, the nevus is a hemisphere, slightly rising above the surface of the skin and colored in dark shades - from brown to almost black. The size of an intradermal nevus is usually about 1 cm in diameter. This type of mole can develop into cancer in old age.Nevus of the sebaceous glands (sebaceous, seborrheic, Jadassohn's nevus)
Nevus of the sebaceous glands (sebaceous, seborrheic, Jadassohn's nevus) is a convex flat spot with a rough surface, painted various shades Brown. Sebaceous nevus forms in children due to a disorder normal height various skin tissues. The causes of growth disorders of various skin tissues have not been clarified; therefore, the exact causal factors sebaceous nevus is also unknown. Such nevi form during intrauterine development, and appear on the baby’s skin 2–3 months after birth. As the child develops sebaceous nevi grow, increase in size and become more convex. Despite constant growth throughout life, Jadassohn's nevus never transforms into cancer, so this type of mole is considered safe.
If a nevus bothers a person from a cosmetic point of view, then it can be easily removed. In this case, it is optimal to remove the mole after the child reaches puberty.
Complex nevus
A complex nevus is a mole consisting of cells of the dermis and epidermis. Externally, a complex nevus looks like small bump or a group of closely spaced tubercles.Epithelioid nevus (Spitz nevus, juvenile melanoma)
Epithelioid nevus (Spitz nevus, juvenile melanoma) is a mole that is similar in structure to melanoma. Despite the similarity of structure, Spitz nevus is not a melanoma and almost never becomes malignant, but its presence indicates a relatively high risk skin cancer in a given person.This type of mole usually appears in children under 10 years of age and grows quite quickly, increasing to 1 cm in diameter within 2 to 4 months. Spitz nevus is a convex formation red-brown color And round shape with a smooth or bumpy surface.
Nevus of Setton (halonevus)
Setton's nevus (halonevus) is a common brown mole surrounded by a wide rim of skin of a lighter shade compared to the color of the rest of the skin surface. Setton's nevi appear in people under 30 years of age.Over time, such a mole may decrease in size and become lighter in color, or disappear completely. After the disappearance of Setton's nevus, as a rule, there remains White spot, persisting for a long time - several months or even years.
These nevi are safe because they do not develop into cancer. However, people with Setton's nevi on the skin have an increased tendency to autoimmune diseases, such as vitiligo, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, etc. In addition, a number of studies have found that the appearance of a large number of Setton nevi is a sign of the development of skin cancer in some area of the skin.
Balloon cell nevus
A nevus of balloon-forming cells is a brownish spot or bump with a thin yellow rim. This type of mole very rarely turns into cancer.Mongolian spot
A Mongolian spot is a single spot or group of spots on the sacrum, buttocks, thighs, or back of a newborn baby. The spot is colored in various shades of blue, has a smooth surface and slightly rises above the skin. The Mongolian spot develops due to the fact that the pigment produced by melanocytes is located in the deep layer of the skin (dermis), and not, as normally, in the epidermis.Nevus Ota
Nevus Ota is single spot or a group of small spots on the skin, colored blue. The spots are always located on the skin of the face - around the eyes, on the cheeks or between the nose and upper lip. Nevus of Ota is a precancerous disease because it tends to degenerate into skin cancer.Nevus Ito
Nevus of Ito looks exactly the same as nevus of Ota, but is localized on the skin of the neck, above the collarbone, on the shoulder blade or in the deltoid muscle area. This type of nevi also refers to precancerous diseases.Blue nevus (blue mole)
Blue nevus (blue nevus) is a type of epidermal mole in which melanocytes produce a blue-black pigment. A nevus appears as a dense nodule, colored in various shades of gray, dark blue or black, and can range in size from 1 to 3 cm in diameter.Blue nevus is usually located on the dorsum of the hands and feet, on the lower back, sacrum or buttocks. The mole is constantly growing slowly and is prone to degeneration into cancer, therefore it is considered dangerous. Blue nevus should be removed as soon as possible after it is identified.
Dysplastic nevus (atypical, Clark's nevus)
Dysplastic nevus (atypical, Clark's nevus) is a single spot or a group of closely spaced spots of round or oval shape with jagged edges, painted in light shades of brown, reddish or light red. In the center of each spot there is a small part protruding above the surface of the skin. An atypical nevus is larger than 6 mm. In general, moles that have at least one of the following characteristics are considered dysplastic:
- Asymmetry (the mole has unequal contours and structure with different sides from a line drawn through central part education);
- Rough edges or uneven coloring;
- Size more than 6 mm;
- The mole is not like all the others on the body.
Papillomatous nevus
A papillomatous nevus is a type of common epidermal mole, the surface of which consists of irregularities and outgrowths that resemble cauliflower in appearance.Papillomatous nevus always rises above the surface of the skin and consists of individual tubercles, colored brownish or pinkish and looking very unpleasant. When touched, the mole is soft and painless.
Despite the ugly appearance, papillomatous nevi are safe because they never degenerate into skin cancer. However, in appearance, these moles can be confused with malignant neoplasms of the skin, therefore, to distinguish such a nevus from cancer, it is necessary to carry out as soon as possible histological examination a small piece taken using a biopsy technique.
Fibroepithelial nevus
Fibroepithelial nevus is very common and is a common epidermal mole, the structure of which contains a large number of connective tissue elements. These moles have a rounded convex shape, various sizes and a reddish, pinkish or light brown color. Fibroepithelial nevi are soft, elastic and painless, growing slowly throughout life, but almost never degenerating into cancer, and are therefore safe.Pink melanocytic nevus
A pink melanocytic nevus is a common epidermal mole that appears in various shades of pink or light red. Such moles are typical for people with very fair skin because their melanocytes produce pink pigment rather than brown.Combined nevus
A combined nevus is a mole consisting of elements of a blue nevus and a complex nevus.Verrucous nevus (linear, warty)
Verrucous nevus (linear, warty) is a spot of an elongated, linear shape, colored dark brown. This type of mole consists of normal cells, and therefore they almost never transform into skin cancer. Therefore, verrucous nevi are removed only in cases where they create visible and causing discomfort. cosmetic defect.The causes of verrucous moles have not been established, but in most cases they are congenital. As a rule, these moles appear 2–3 months after birth or during the first 5 years of a child’s life. As the child grows, the verrucous mole may increase slightly in size and darken, and also become more convex.
Congenital nevus (congenital mole)
Congenital nevus is a benign neoplasm that develops in a child some time after birth. That is, the causes of this type of mole are laid during the period of intrauterine development, and the nevus itself is formed after the birth of the child.Congenital moles can have different shapes, sizes, edges, colors and surfaces. That is, a mole of this type can be round, oval or irregular shape, with clear or blurred edges, with color ranging from light brown to almost black. The surface of a congenital mole can be smooth, warty, papular, folded, etc.
Congenital and acquired moles are practically indistinguishable in appearance. However, congenital moles are always larger than 1.5 cm in diameter. Sometimes such a nevus can be gigantic - more than 20 cm in diameter, and occupy the skin surface of an entire anatomical area (for example, chest, shoulder, neck, etc.).
All of the above nevi (moles) are also divided into two large groups, such as:
1.
Melanoma-dangerous moles.
2.
Melanoma-safe moles.
Melanoma-hazardous moles are considered precancerous diseases, since they are the ones most often among all nevi to degenerate into malignant skin tumors. Therefore, it is recommended to remove them as soon as possible after their identification. Melanoma-safe moles almost never degenerate into cancer, therefore they are considered safe, as a result of which they are removed only if there is a desire to eliminate a cosmetic defect associated with their presence on the skin.
The following types of melanoma-hazardous moles include:
- Blue nevus;
- Borderline nevus;
- Congenital giant pigment virus;
- Nevus Ota;
- Dysplastic nevus.
Red moles
A mole that looks like a small and raised red dot is a senile angioma. These angiomas are completely safe because they never turn into skin cancer. If the red mole is larger than the size of a dot, then this formation may be a Spitz nevus, which in itself is safe, but is evidence that a person has an increased risk of skin cancer.
Red or pink raised mole may be a symptom in people over 45 years of age initial stage development of skin cancer.
If an existing red mole does not grow, does not itch or bleed, then it is either a senile angioma or a Spitz nevus. If a mole actively increases in size, itches, bleeds and causes inconvenience, then most likely we're talking about about the initial stage of skin cancer. In this case, you should immediately contact an oncologist who will conduct necessary examinations and prescribe treatment.
Hanging moles
By the term “hanging” moles, people usually mean a certain formation that looks like a nevus, but is not tightly attached to the skin with a wide base, but seems to hang on a thin stalk. Such “hanging” moles can be the following formations:- Acrochordons– small growths, flesh-colored, usually located in armpits, inguinal folds, on the neck or torso;
- Convex growths of various sizes, dark or flesh-colored and having a smooth or bumpy surface, may represent epidermal nevi or keratosis.
If a “hanging” mole turns black and becomes painful, then this indicates its torsion, impaired nutrition and blood supply. Usually, soon after blackening and development of pain, the “hanging” mole disappears. Such an event is not dangerous and does not provoke the growth of new similar moles. However, in order to ensure optimal healing skin and, if necessary, remove blood clots or remnants of dead tissue, you should consult a doctor after the “hanging” mole falls off.
If at some point a person has a lot of acrochordons ("hanging" moles), then he should take a blood test for glucose concentration, since such an event is often a sign of developing diabetes mellitus. That is, from the point of view of skin cancer, the appearance of a large number of “hanging” moles is not dangerous, but this indicates the development of another serious disease.
Large mole
Moles whose largest size is more than 6 mm are considered large. Generally, such large moles are safe as long as their structure does not change and their size does not increase over time. Only large, dark-colored (gray, brown, black-purple) moles are dangerous, since they can degenerate into melanoma (skin cancer).However, in order to fully ensure the safety of what is present on the skin large mole, you should consult a dermatologist who can examine it, perform a dermatoscopy and take a biopsy. Based on the manipulations performed, the doctor will be able to accurately determine the histological type of the mole and, thereby, determine the degree of its danger. Such an examination will allow a person to make sure that the mole he has is safe and, thereby, ensure peace of mind in the future, which is very important for an acceptable quality of life.
Many moles
If a person has many moles over a relatively short period of time (1 - 3 months), then he should definitely consult a dermatologist to determine what type of nevi they are. In the vast majority of cases, the appearance of a large number of moles is not dangerous, since it is a skin reaction to tanning or other factors environment. However, in some rare cases, a large number of moles may indicate serious and severe diseases of the skin or immune system, as well as malignant tumors in internal organs.
Dangerous moles
Moles that can degenerate into cancer or that look very similar to malignant tumor. If a mole is prone to cancerous degeneration, then it is actually a matter of time before it becomes not a benign, but a malignant formation. That is why doctors recommend removing such moles.If the mole is similar in appearance to cancer, as a result of which it is impossible to distinguish them, then it should be removed as soon as possible. mandatory and as soon as possible. After the mole is removed, it is sent for histological examination, during which the doctor examines the tissue of the formation under a microscope. If the histologist gives a conclusion that the removed mole is not cancer, then no additional therapeutic activities no need to carry out. If, according to the conclusion of histology, the removed formation turns out to be a cancerous tumor, then you should undergo a course of chemotherapy, which will destroy the existing tumors in the body. tumor cells and thus prevents a possible relapse.
Currently classic The following are considered signs of a dangerous mole:
- Pain of various nature and the degree of intensity in the area of the mole;
- Itching in the area of the mole;
- Visible increase in the size of the mole in short terms(1 – 2 months);
- The appearance of additional structures on the surface of the mole (for example, crusts, sores, bulges, bumps, etc.).
In practice, doctors believe that the most accurate sign of a dangerous mole is its dissimilarity to other moles a person has. For example, if a person has moles with uneven edges and uneven coloring, which seem dangerous, but exist for many years and do not cause concern, then a beautiful and even mole that appears among these “suspicious” nevi, which is considered completely normal according to classical criteria, will be dangerous. And, accordingly, vice versa, if among a large number of even and regular moles one appears strange shape and uneven coloring, then it is this mole that will be dangerous. This method of identifying a dangerous formation is called the ugly duckling principle.
In general, this ugly duckling principle, by which one can distinguish the malignant degeneration of a mole, is that cancer is a mole that is not similar to others on the body. Moreover, either a newly appeared mole that is unusual and different from others, or an old one that suddenly changed, began to grow, itch, itch, bleed and acquired an unusual appearance is considered dangerous.
Thus, moles that have always had an unusual appearance and do not change over time are not dangerous. But if suddenly an old mole begins to actively change or a new nevus appears on the body, different from all the others, then they are considered dangerous. It means that moles with the following characteristics:
- Jagged or blurred edges;
- Uneven coloring (dark or white spots on the surface of the mole);
- Dark or white rims around the mole;
- Black dots around the mole;
- Black or blue color of the mole;
- Asymmetry of a mole
In addition, the subjective criterion for a dangerous mole is that a person suddenly at some point begins to feel and sense it. Many people indicate that they began to literally feel their mole, which began to degenerate into cancer. Many practicing dermatologists pay attention to this seemingly biased sign great importance, because it allows you to detect cancer early stage.
The mole is growing
Normally, moles can grow slowly for up to 25–30 years, while growth processes continue throughout the human body. After age 30, moles usually do not increase in size, but some existing nevi can grow very slowly, increasing by 1 mm in diameter over a few years. This rate of growth of moles is normal and is not considered dangerous. But if a mole begins to grow faster, significantly increasing in size within 2 to 4 months, then this is dangerous, since it may indicate its malignant degeneration.Mole itches
If a mole or the skin surrounding it begins to itch and itch, this is dangerous, as it may indicate a malignant degeneration of the nevus. Therefore, if itching appears in the area of the mole, it is necessary to consult a doctor as soon as possible. If the skin surrounding the mole begins to peel off with or without itching, then this is dangerous, since it may indicate an early stage of malignant degeneration of the nevus.
If a mole begins not only to itch and itch, but also to grow, change color or bleed, then this is an undoubted sign of malignancy of the nevus and requires urgent medical attention.
Mole is bleeding
If a mole begins to bleed after an injury, for example, a person scratched it, tore it, etc., then this is not dangerous, since it is a normal tissue reaction to damage. But if a mole bleeds without any visible reasons constantly or periodically, then this is dangerous and in such a situation it is necessary to consult a doctor.Causes of moles
Since moles are benign tumors, possible reasons their appearance may be due to various factors that provoke active and excessive division of skin cells in a small and limited area of skin. Thus, it is currently believed that these possible causes of the development of moles may be the following factors:- Skin development defects;
- Genetic factors;
- Ultraviolet radiation;
- Skin injuries;
- Diseases accompanied by hormonal imbalance;
- Long-term use hormonal drugs;
- Viral and bacterial infections that occur over a long period of time.
Genetic factors are the cause of moles that are inherited from parents to children. As a rule, any characteristic birthmarks or large moles located in strictly defined places are transmitted in this way.
Ultraviolet radiation stimulates the active production of melanin, which colors the skin more dark color(tanning) and thereby protects it from negative impact solar radiation. If you are in the sun long time, then the process of intensive reproduction of melanocytes - cells that produce melanin - will begin. As a result, melanocytes will not be able to distribute evenly throughout the skin and will form a local accumulation, which will look like a new mole.
Injuries indirectly cause the formation of moles. The fact is that after an injury, in an area with impaired tissue integrity, a large amount of biologically active substances are formed that stimulate the regeneration process. Normally, as a result of regeneration, the integrity of tissues is restored after injury. But if the regeneration is excessive, occurring under the influence of a large number of biologically active substances, then the process does not stop in a timely manner, resulting in the formation of a small amount of “extra” tissue, which becomes moles.
Violation hormonal balance can provoke the formation of moles due to increased production of melanotropic hormone. Under the influence of this hormone, the process of reproduction of melanocytes and other cells from which moles can form is activated.
Viral and bacterial infections provoke the formation of moles due to traumatic injury skin that occurs locally, in the area of the infectious-inflammatory process.
Moles in children
In children, moles can appear from 2 to 3 months. Up to the age of 10, the appearance of moles in a child is considered normal and does not pose any danger. Moles that appear before the age of 10 will slowly increase in size until the age of 25–30, while the person himself continues to grow. In all other respects, moles in a child are no different from those in adults.Moles and warts in children: risk factors and prevention of nevus degeneration into cancer, signs of malignancy, mole injuries, treatment (removal), answers to questions - video
Moles in women
Moles in women do not have any fundamental features and have all general characteristics and the properties described in the previous sections. The only peculiarity of moles in women is that during puberty and menopause, new ones can actively appear and old ones grow. During pregnancy and lactation, moles do not undergo any fundamental changes. Therefore, if a pregnant woman or nursing mother has a mole that begins to grow or change in any way, she should consult a doctor. Mole removal
Removing moles is a method of eliminating the danger associated with the likelihood of their degeneration into cancer. Therefore, moles that are potentially dangerous should be removed.Is it possible to remove nevi (can moles be removed)?
Often, wanting to remove one or more moles, people ask the question: “Is it possible to remove these moles and will this cause any harm?” This question is natural, since at the everyday level there is a widespread opinion that it is better not to touch moles. However, from the perspective of the likely development of skin cancer, removing any mole is completely safe. This means that removing a mole may not contribute to the development of skin cancer. Therefore, you can safely remove any mole that causes discomfort or creates a cosmetic defect.Any operations to remove moles are safe, since complications during their implementation are extremely rare and, in most cases, are associated with allergic reaction for painkillers, bleeding, etc.
Which moles should definitely be removed?
Moles that look like skin cancer or have begun to actively change in recent months (grow, bleed, change color, shape, etc.) must be removed. Such moles should be removed as soon as possible short term to prevent possible tumor progression and transition of the malignant pathological process to more severe stages.At the same time, there is no need to remove all moles that are present on the body and cause any suspicion of their possible malignant degeneration in the future, since this is not rational and ineffective from the standpoint of preventing skin cancer. Indeed, in most cases, skin cancer develops from a completely normal area of the skin, and not from a mole, the malignancy of which is extremely rare. Therefore, there is no need to remove all suspicious moles; it is better to leave them on the body and regularly visit a dermatologist for a preventive examination.
In addition, you can remove any moles that do not satisfy a person for aesthetic reasons, that is, they create a visible cosmetic defect.
Methods for removing moles (nevi)
Currently, moles can be removed using the following methods:- Surgical removal;
- Laser removal;
- Removal with liquid nitrogen (cryodestruction);
- Electrocoagulation ("cauterization" with electric current);
- Radio wave removal.
All other moles can be removed with a laser or liquid nitrogen, which allow the manipulation to be carried out as carefully and bloodlessly as possible.
Surgical removal
Surgical removal of a mole involves cutting it out with a scalpel or special instrument (see Figure 1).
Picture 1– Mole removal tool.
To perform the operation, the mole itself and the skin around it are treated with an antiseptic (alcohol, etc.). Then a local anesthetic drug, for example, Novocaine, Lidocaine, Ultracaine, etc., is injected into the thickness of the skin under the mole. Then, incisions are made on the sides of the mole through which it is removed. When using a special tool, it is placed over the mole and immersed deep into the skin, after which the cut out area of tissue is removed with tweezers.
After removing the mole, the edges of the wound are tightened with 1–3 sutures, treated with an antiseptic and sealed with a plaster.
Laser removal
Laser mole removal involves vaporizing a nevus using a laser. This method is optimal for removing superficial pigment spots. Laser removal of moles ensures minimal tissue trauma, as a result of which the skin heals very quickly and does not form a scar.Liquid nitrogen removal
Removing a mole with liquid nitrogen is the destruction of a nevus under the influence of low temperature. After the mole is destroyed with liquid nitrogen, it is removed from the tissue with tweezers or cut out with a scalpel. The method of removing a mole with liquid nitrogen is not easy, since it is impossible to control the depth of tissue destruction. That is, if the doctor retains liquid nitrogen on the skin for too long, this will lead to the destruction of not only the mole, but also the surrounding tissue. In this case, a large wound will form, which is prone to prolonged healing and scar formation. Electrocoagulation
Electrocoagulation of a mole involves its destruction using electric current. This method is commonly referred to as “cauterization.” Many women are familiar with the essence of this method if they have ever had cervical erosion “cauterized.”Radio wave mole removal
Radio wave mole removal is an excellent replacement surgical method, which is more traumatic. Radio wave removal of a mole is as effective as surgical removal, but less traumatic. Unfortunately, this method is rarely used due to the lack of necessary equipment.Moles (nevi): causes of appearance, signs (symptoms) of degeneration into skin cancer, diagnosis (dermatoscopy), treatment (removal), prevention of malignancy - video
Moles (nevi): signs of dangerous and non-dangerous moles, risk factors for degeneration into cancer, methods of diagnosing and removing moles, doctor’s advice - video
Removing a mole using radio wave surgery - video
Removed mole
A few hours after the mole is removed, pain may appear in the wound area. varying degrees intensity caused by a violation of the integrity of skin structures. These pains can be relieved by taking drugs from the group of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Paracetamol, Nurofen, Nimesulide, Ketorol, Ketanov, etc.The wound itself does not require any special care or treatment until the stitches are removed, which occurs on days 7–10. After this, to speed up healing and prevent scar formation, it is recommended to lubricate the wound with Levomekol, Solcoseryl or Methyluracil ointments.
Until the wound heals completely, so as not to provoke inflammation, infection and the formation of a rough scar, the following rules should be followed:
- Do not apply cosmetics to the wound;
- Do not pick or wet the crust;
- Cover the wound with a cloth or adhesive tape from exposure to sunlight.
In rare cases, the wound after removal of a mole may become inflamed due to pathogenic bacteria entering it, which will lead to longer healing and scar formation. Signs of infection are as follows:
- Inflammation of the wound;
- The pain in the wound area became stronger;
- Pus in the wound area;
- Broken edges of the wound.
In rare cases, the sutures may diverge, causing the edges of the wound to diverge to the sides and slowly grow together. In such a situation, you should consult a doctor so that he can apply new stitches or tighten the existing ones.
It's rare to see a person without small dark marks on their body. Is it worth paying attention to these points? Only a doctor will distinguish between dangerous and non-dangerous moles - malignant melanoma or harmless nevus - and give recommendations on what to do with them. Should I worry about the appearance of new formations when required? immediate appeal to specialists, what are the signs of cancer development - the answers to these questions remain to be found out. No one is safe from trouble, but early diagnosis will protect you from severe consequences.
What is a mole
The first tiny spots may appear in children in infancy. A mole is a small formation on the skin - a nevus - that is considered benign and harmless. The basis for their appearance is melanocyte cells that accumulate the natural pigment melanin. Depending on its quantity, a difference in color is observed. Available colors:
- red;
- black;
- pink;
- brown;
- blue.
The shape of the tumors depends on the location and concentration of melanin. They may have a stalk or be located under the skin, be flat and convex. The most common type is round, but there are exceptions. The development of neoplasms provokes ultraviolet radiation– natural from the sun, in a solarium. Not excluded hereditary factors. Common reason education – hormonal imbalance, characteristic of the periods:
- puberty;
- pregnancy;
- menopause.
What types of moles are there?
One person may discover very different tumors. Types of moles are classified according to several criteria. This helps in correct diagnosis in case of changes. They differ in:
- origin – congenital, newly acquired;
- structure – pigmented, vascular;
- place of formation - in depth, on the surface, in the boundary layer;
- raised above the skin – flat – even, protruding as a hemisphere, pedunculated, birthmarks bigger size;
- potential threats - dangerous, degenerating into melanoma, non-dangerous.
Safe moles
Those who have dark spots on their skin should be attentive to their changes. In time, detected signs of degeneration into melanoma contribute to the timely removal of the formation and preservation of health. Safe moles are different:
- the presence of a stalk – it cannot be formed by malignant cells that grow randomly;
- long-term condition without changes.
Spots that appear shortly after birth are not considered dangerous. It is important that they are small in size. Good – non-dangerous – signs of neoplasms include:
- flesh tone;
- unchanged pattern of the skin of the nevus and adjacent tissues;
- soft consistency;
- hair on the surface of the neoplasm - growing from the skin, indicates the absence of pathologies;
- diameter no more than 5 mm;
- symmetry;
- nevus in the form of a spot.
Which moles are dangerous?
Why do people with nevi on their bodies need to monitor their changes? There is always a threat of degeneration of non-dangerous tumors into a cancerous tumor. What moles are dangerous to health? Key signs you need to know:
- change in shades dark side, the appearance of multicolor;
- rapid increase in size - exceeds two millimeters per year;
- occurrence of cracks;
- the formation of asymmetry due to uneven growth;
- lack of elasticity;
- the appearance of itching, burning;
- presence of discomfort.
Appearance dangerous moles requires an immediate visit to a specialist to clarify the nature of the changes and the likelihood of developing skin cancer. Pathological transformations provoke:
- injury to the nevus due to negligence;
- self-removal;
- abuse of exposure to the sun, use of a solarium;
- location of the formation in places of frequent contact with clothing - on the neck, head, genitals;
- placement in the hair, on the face, palms - where available Great chance getting injured;
- previously removed melanoma.
Why are moles dangerous?
From sudden cell proliferation harmless mole no one is protected. Melanoma is extremely serious illness. Changes not identified at the initial stage may end fatal. The provoking factor is unsuccessful independent removal of tumors. Moles are dangerous because of their ability to:
- transform into an atypical – precancerous form;
- grow to large sizes;
- turn into cancerous;
- for small external changes actively spread metastases throughout the body through the circulatory and lymphatic channels.
How quickly does melanoma develop from a mole?
The transformation of a nevus into a cancerous formation can occur in different ways. The process depends on the stage of the disease and the type of tumor. Instant metastases are dangerous. Begins:
- growth of cancer cells into the deep layers of the epidermis;
- their entry into the blood and lymph;
- penetration into the lungs, liver, kidneys;
- growth in these organs;
- complete damage to the body;
- death.
The growth phases of pigment cells are observed, along which melanoma develops from a mole. There are types:
- horizontal - damage occurs upper layers skin, lasting up to 10 years, metastases do not appear;
- vertical – accompanied by the spread of cancer cells throughout the organs, can last two years, has an unfavorable prognosis;
- nodular - especially dangerous - characterized by deep spread within two months.
The first signs of melanoma
The patient can only be helped once changes have begun to be identified. Conducted diagnostics, research, referral for treatment operational way save a person's life. The first signs of melanoma:
- increase in the height of the tumor;
- bleeding;
- the appearance of discharge;
- redness;
- burning, itching;
- swelling of tissues;
- softening of the nevus;
- the appearance of a crust;
- thickening;
- hair loss;
- expansion of pigmentation around the lesion.
At further development dangerous melanoma observed:
- significant change in size;
- the appearance of pain;
- enlarged lymph nodes;
- surface ulceration;
- formation of new foci;
- bleeding from places of pigmentation;
- liquid separation;
- skin thickening;
- the appearance of an earthy tint;
- signs of metastases are chronic cough, weight loss, cramps, headaches.
How to distinguish a mole from melanoma
To recognize which moles are dangerous and which are not dangerous, you need to know what they look like. A person with nevi to rule out dire consequences, must constantly monitor the emergence of new formations and changes occurring. You can distinguish a mole from melanoma by its signs. Non-dangerous neoplasm:
- symmetrical;
- with smooth edges;
- uniform in color;
- with dimensions not exceeding 6 millimeters.
Features of dangerous melanoma that require seeking help from dermatologists:
- growth in a short time;
- pronounced asymmetry of shape;
- heterogeneity in color - the presence of inclusions of several shades;
- lack of clear boundaries - the contour line is blurred, jagged, and looks like a shore on geographical map;
- increased diameter over six millimeters;
- variability of any parameters - color, size, shape.
What dangerous moles look like
What do nevi that are subject to pathological changes look like? Only a doctor can correctly distinguish between non-dangerous tumors. Dangerous formations look like this:
- blue – seals under the skin with clear boundaries, with dimensions no more than 10 mm;
- nodal – round, flat in shape, color – brown, black;
- skin – often pale, convex;
- halo nevus - pigment surrounded by a white ring;
- Spitz - looks like a dome-shaped tumor of pink shades, with the possible presence of a hole through which blood and fluid leaks;
- connective - connect individual formations into a whole.
Mole with jagged edges
One of the signs of a non-hazardous formation turning into a dangerous one is a change in contours. It often has blurred edges and scalloped borders. There are non-dangerous types of nevi - dysplastic. Correct diagnosis Only a specialist can do it. A mole with uneven edges can be dangerous if there are additional signs of melanoma:
- accelerated changes in size;
- the presence of clearly defined asymmetry;
- the appearance of highly indented boundaries.
Rough mole
Such a neoplasm is harmless if its diameter is no more than 5 mm and remains constant in size. Often its appearance signals a lack of vitamins and nutritional disorders. Doctors advise coming for a consultation if it is discovered that:
- the smooth nevus turned into a rough one;
- bothered by burning, itching, tingling;
- irregularities and compactions appeared in the middle;
- areas with different shades formed;
- diameter has increased significantly.
A dangerous rough mole requires immediate examination if:
- the appearance of bleeding;
- development of the inflammatory process;
- rapid change in size;
- formation of asymmetry;
- education purulent discharge;
- the occurrence of painful sensations when touched;
- the emergence of an irregular shape, blurred boundaries, along the edges of the neoplasm.
Large moles
Skin formations big size – dark spots. When they remain unchanged and do not cause inconvenience, this is not a dangerous phenomenon. It is important to constantly monitor their appearance, color, and size. To eliminate worries, you need to consult a dermatologist. During the visit, the specialist will conduct a diagnosis and give a forecast of the risk of developing a malignant neoplasm. Large moles become dangerous if they:
- injured;
- thickened;
- started to itch;
- were unsuccessfully removed independently;
- changed in size, shape;
- are bleeding.
What moles can be removed
Often nevi cause trouble for women when they are in a visible place - the face, neck. Even if they don't bother you, using removal will the right decision– appearance will improve significantly. After the procedure, the doctor must send the tissue for histological analysis to decide whether the mole is malignant or not. If the neoplasm is not dangerous, does not bother you, and does not change in size, surgery is not required. Which moles cannot be removed? Experts believe:
- there are no contraindications;
- It is important to choose the right excision technique.
You should be careful about skin growths; it is unacceptable to remove them yourself. Only the doctor will determine whether a nevus is dangerous or not and decide what to do with it. You can delete it if:
- injured from clothing - on the neck, in the groin area, under the armpits;
- cause pain when touched;
- are located under the hair on the head and can be damaged when combing or cutting;
- change color, shape, outline;
- significantly increase in size;
- characterized by the presence of burning, itching;
- accompanied by inflammation and bleeding.
Photos of dangerous moles
Video: How to recognize melanoma
Malignant moles or skin cancer are oncological pathologies or melanomas that develop from melanocytes that form the basal layer of the epidermis. In other words, a malignant mole occurs on a pigmented area of the skin. This can be any area of the body, but most often cancerous moles appear in areas that are exposed to regular ultraviolet radiation.
Mole cancer, called melanoma, is the most dangerous form. That is why doctors recommend regularly examining your body for tumors, since not in all cases they can be benign. You need to know what your mole looks like on your body if it is transformed.
Causes
It is still impossible to determine exactly what is causing the appearance of low-quality moles, since there is not enough information on this topic. But it is possible to identify factors that are fundamental in the development of cancer.
These include ultraviolet radiation, which affects benign moles that a person has. This can be either the sun or bactericidal lamps.
A predisposition to the occurrence of low-quality moles exists in those people who are endowed with red hair and white skin type.
Hereditary predisposition also matters. So, cancer moles may appear in people whose relatives had such neoplasms. The rule for preventing oncological moles in such people is to limit exposure to the sun at unsafe hours. You should avoid going to the solarium.
If there are multiple benign moles on the body (more than 50), it is recommended not to go to the solarium and not to be in direct sunlight, especially in summer. When visiting the beach, it is important to be in the shade.
The degeneration of a mole into a malignant neoplasm can be observed both in young and old age. But in old age, the risk of development increases. Treatment is complicated by the fact that old age the body is no longer completely healthy and from taking necessary medications the development of undesirable reactions is possible.
The gender of a person also matters. Thus, in men, the degeneration of a mole into a malignant one is more common than in women. No explanation has yet been found for this fact.
During pregnancy, any exposure to ultraviolet rays is detrimental to a woman's health. At strong pigmentation there is a risk of cancer on the body.
Symptoms and manifestations
And yet, both people with white skin type and representatives of other people and races are susceptible to such malignant neoplasms. Malignant moles can occur in a person from any country of residence.
The first symptoms of such a neoplasm may differ in each specific case. As a rule, the first signs are the deformation of an ordinary mole.
In this case, new moles appear in a very rapid manner. After about two weeks, you can notice a new formation, including 10-20 moles.
In the initial stage, cancer cells cover surface layer skin, subsequently developing into the inner layers. Each of this number of moles will suffer deformation. If the suspicious moles are not deformed, this means that there is no melanoma.
Signs of a malignant neoplasm can be identified independently. In any case, when there is a rapid growth of moles, you need to seek the help of a doctor. Self-diagnosis is as follows.
You need to see what a mole looks like. When a mole develops benignly, its symmetry is noted, that is, its two hemispheres are the same size. With poor quality development, one half will be larger than the second.
The color shade of a tumor can tell you a lot. So, when combining several colors, it is important to tell your doctor about it.
A normal mole, that is, benign, should not be more than 6 mm in diameter. If this size is exceeded, this indicates a poor-quality course of the pathology.
Treatment of the disease
Skin cancer can be cured, especially with the latest technologies V modern medicine. Treatment will be especially effective when timely detection diseases. Bad moles, that is, those that are not benign, can be treated with surgery, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The required type of treatment can be determined by determining information about the stage of the pathology, the person’s health status and age.
The early stage of the pathology requires surgical treatment. Typically, the operation is extreme method treatment, after which other methods of eliminating the disease are not needed. In some cases, a lymph node biopsy is performed during surgery to determine how much the tumor has spread.
If the tumor has spread to the area of the lymph nodes, treatment methods other than surgery are prescribed. Advanced stages of the pathology require combination treatment. In this case, the tumor must be removed using surgery and radiation therapy.
If the first signs of the disease are detected, the following sequence of actions by the doctor can be identified:
- conducting an initial examination by a doctor;
- carrying out the necessary diagnostic measures;
- if necessary, conduct additional research;
- prescription of treatment;
- recovery period.
Preventive actions
As already noted, skin cancer can occur at the hereditary level. The main rule for preventing such malignant neoplasms is prevention. This is why it is important to limit your stay on direct lines. sun rays, in the solarium and on the beach.
There is a hypothesis that malignant neoplasms, that is, skin cancer, can occur in the case of previous skin burns in the sun. Who among us didn’t run in the sun as a child and get sunburnt? And any part of the body that was not protected by clothing was subject to this. With age, a process of dangerous changes has begun in the body, and under the influence of unfavorable external and internal environment rebirth began.
There are no universal methods for preventing cancer. The main rule is to protect your skin in summer and monitor its condition.
How dangerous is malignant neoplasm?
The main complication of such a neoplasm is the process of spread of pathology to other organs and tissues in the body.
When skin cancer spreads hematogenously, that is, covering blood vessels, sedimentation of metastases can be diagnosed in any organ. If skin cancer spreads through the lymphatic tract, it will be possible to talk about damage to the nodes themselves.
To prevent malignancy of the nevus, especially if it is localized in places of systematic trauma by clothing, it is recommended to remove it.
Complications may arise due to self-treatment, without consulting a doctor. Therefore, it is important to follow all doctor’s instructions and not self-medicate.
It is on the body of every person. Most often they are benign and do not pose any danger.
But under the influence pathological factors nevi can degenerate into a malignant tumor - melanoma. It is one of the fastest growing tumors in the body.
The disease (especially in its advanced form) is difficult to treat. It is important to recognize dangerous symptoms in time and begin therapy.
Causes of malignancy
Any mole or wart can develop into cancer. This requires prolonged exposure to adverse factors. Basic prerequisites:
- ultraviolet radiation (solar or artificial);
- history of sunburn;
- injury to education;
- the presence of a certain type of nevus (complex, borderline, blue, intradermal melanocytic);
- a large number of moles (more than 50);
- age over 50 years;
- skin cancer in relatives or in the patient himself in the past.
Signs of a malignant nevus
Melanoma – cancer tumor, is formed from melanocytes (skin cells that produce melanin). The disease spreads throughout the body through the blood and lymph, so metastases are easy to detect in any organ. Melanoma is more common in fair-skinned, blond people with blue eyes.
The tumor can either initially form on the skin and mucous membranes, or degenerate from a nevus. Therefore, you need to periodically examine your body.
Photos of malignant moles and warts
There are a number of symptoms that you should pay attention to:
- change in the contour of a mole (wart) - its size may increase, the edge becomes indistinct, blurred, lumpy;
- color change - darkening, lightening;
- compaction formation;
- itching and burning of the skin in the mole area;
- surface ulceration;
- baldness of a skin area;
- bleeding from the nevus.
How to distinguish a benign mole?
If a malignant nevus usually corresponds to the signs listed above, then a benign one looks more harmless:
- a benign mole is symmetrical, has an even contour, a clear edge;
- all parts of the formation are uniformly colored;
- the surface is smooth and even;
- the nevus does not change its size;
- does not cause discomfort.
If these points fit the description of your education, then there is no need to worry. Otherwise, it is better to entrust the diagnosis to a doctor.
Which doctor should I contact?
Treatment and diagnosis malignant tumors The skin is treated by a dermatologist-oncologist. Such a doctor conducts consultations both in private clinics and in public ones (oncological dispensary or dermatovenous dispensary).
If it is difficult to find this specialist in your city, you can contact an oncologist, dermatologist or surgeon.
It often happens that getting to to a specialist difficult: no ticket, or registration on wrong time. In this case, you can contact your local therapist. Every doctor can conduct an initial diagnosis of the disease.
The main thing is not to delay your visit to the doctor!
How is diagnosis carried out?
First of all, the doctor will ask you about your symptoms in detail. It is important to know how long ago the changes began? How fast is the process? How often have you been exposed to pathological factors?
Then you can begin the inspection. An indispensable method diagnostics skin diseases is dermatoscopy - examination of the nevus using a magnifying glass or a special dermatoscope. The assessment of what education looks like is carried out using the ABCDE scale:
- A – asymmetry,
- B – jagged edge,
- C – difference in parts of the mole by color,
- D – nevus size greater than 6 mm,
- E – variability of formation.
Additionally, the doctor may prescribe a smear from the nevus. Such an examination has a certain risk, because During the method, you can damage the mole, which will provoke the growth of cancer cells.
Final diagnosis can be placed only after excision of the melanoma along with the surrounding tissues. After surgery, the sample is sent to the laboratory for histological analysis. Determine whether the tumor is completely removed and its growth rate (mitotic index). This is necessary to correctly prescribe further treatment.
CT, MRI and ultrasound internal organs prescribed to monitor the presence of metastases in surrounding tissues, organs and lymph nodes.
Treatment of the disease
If warts or papillomas are often removed using cryodestruction or electrocoagulation, then this method is completely unsuitable for malignant nevi. There is a high probability that the tissue will not be completely excised and wounds will remain at the bottom. cancer cells.
In this case, melanoma will still manifest itself over time, and it will be even more difficult to treat.
The main method of combating melanoma is surgical. The type of surgery, as well as maintenance therapy, depends on the presence of metastases.
- initial stage diseases (without metastasis).
Both to remove newly appeared melanoma and to treat relapses, sheath-fascial excision of tissue is used.
Those. together with the nevus, the skin around (1-3 cm depending on the stage of the process), affected lymph nodes, subcutaneous fat down to the muscle are removed.
Some surgeons prefer to remove muscles and fascia. The defect is then restored with one's own or synthetic tissues.
- Metastatic tumor.
If the formation has “sprouted” into other organs, surgery will not be enough. It is necessary to influence the entire body to suppress the growth of metastases. For this purpose, radiation, immunotherapy and chemotherapy are used:
- radiation therapy– melanoma does not respond well to such treatment, so it is prescribed only if the patient categorically refuses surgery. Or in combination with another type of therapy. The total radiation dose must be at least 120 Gy;
- immunotherapy – the patient is given analogues of the components of his own immune system. Interferon-alpha, Interleukin 2 and monoclonal antibodies (ipilimumab, nivolumab) are prescribed;
- Chemotherapy is most effective when using Imidazolecarboxamide, which can enhance any other therapy by 20-30%. Other agents: carmustine, lomustine, cyclophosphamide.
The choice of therapy is made by the doctor.
Unfortunately, even if the treatment is carried out in full, the result is not always positive. Malignant melanoma may return after some time. That is why it is important not to waste a second and start therapy as soon as possible.
This gives more chances for a long and happy life. It is also important to take very good care of your body. If you have already been diagnosed with melanoma, completely eliminate exposure to all adverse factors. This will greatly help in treating the disease.
How often should I be examined after removal?
If remission occurs as a result of the treatment, the person begins to live life to the fullest. But you will still have to visit the cancer clinic.
For the first year after surgery, visits to the doctor will be frequent - every month or every quarter. Then less often - 1-2 times a year. You cannot skip examinations.
The doctor must constantly monitor the condition of the postoperative wound, the immediate skin and lymph nodes. You also need to periodically take tests and undergo examinations to make sure that the body is functioning correctly.
Forecast
The most reliable prognostic sign for malignant nevus– depth of tissue damage. If the mole has been completely removed and there are no metastases, the prognosis is favorable. Important role has the age and gender of the patient.
Young women are more likely to be cured of melanoma. If the disease has been advanced, the probability of five-year survival is about 10%.
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All information is presented for educational purposes. Do not self-medicate, it is dangerous! Accurate diagnosis Only a doctor can diagnose.
