Disclaimer: Each patient is unique and individual results may vary.
3 Signs You Should Visit Moksha Dermatology for a Mole Screening
Moles are one of the most common dermatological issues we face. Many people, including those with light skin, have a few of these cellular proliferations (called melanocytes) on their skin.
Mole skin can have varying textures, coloration, and form. It’s possible that some of your moles are a result of your genetics and that others will appear as you become older.
The good news is that moles usually don’t cause any problems. Nonetheless, if concerning symptoms emerge, prompt medical attention is required. The expert dermatologists at Moksha Dermatology have compiled this guide to help you recognize potentially dangerous moles and seek proper care as needed.
How to Know When It’s Time to Seek Medical Care for a Mole
Consider these three warning signs that it’s time to consult Moksha Dermatology about your mole:
1. The Mole Indicates Skin Cancer Signs
The appearance of new or changing moles, sores, lumps, blemishes, markings, or other anomalies on the skin should be taken seriously because they may be early indicators of melanoma or another form of skin cancer.
About 10 to 40 moles, the vast majority of which are completely harmless, can be found on the skin of the average adult. However, skin cancer can be indicated by the appearance of a new mole or the modification of an existing one.
Skin cancer is highly curable if detected at an early stage. Early treatment is possible if you know what to look for. Remember the ABCDEs of troublesome moles with the help of the alphabet:
- A – Asymmetry: One side of the mole is not the same as the other
- B – Border: The border of the mole is lopsided, uneven, or not defined
- C – Color: The mole has different shades or colors
- D – Diameter: A pencil eraser sized mole or larger
- E – Evolving: Changes in shape, color, or size over time
The most effective method for identifying and treating atypical moles is to undergo regular skin cancer exams.
2. Bleeding or Breaking of Mole Skin
In the event that your mole splits or bleeds, it is recommended that you see a dermatologist. However, this is not always indicative of skin cancer.
Moles with a raised or rough surface may irritate clothing. The skin could tear or the mole could bleed if you do this. We may recommend removal of the mole, even if it is benign, depending on its location and the extent of the tear.
If you have a mole that breaks or bleeds without any obvious reasons or if you have a mole that resembles an open sore, it could be a sign of melanoma. It’s best to schedule a meeting as soon as possible.
3. Pain or Itchiness of the Mole
Because moles are made of skin, they can react to the same things as the rest of your skin would, such as new soaps and detergents, makeup, the environment, or even poorly fitting clothing. A mole’s discomfort or itchiness may result from this.
However, if malignant cells in the mole damage the skin’s delicate nerve endings, the mole may become itchy or painful. If a mole suddenly becomes itchy or sore, but then improves, it’s probably because of some sort of skin trauma, an allergic reaction to a chemical, or some sort of rubbing.
However, skin cancer might be indicated by a mole that continues to itch over time. Cancers of the basal and squamous cell types are the most common causes of itchiness. Final thought? Please contact us immediately if you have any concerns about a mole.
Do not forget to show your provider any new or changing spots under your fingernails or toenails, inside your mouth, or even in the colored part of your eye (iris), as this is where a small percentage of melanomas begin.
Mole Treatment at Moksha Dermatology
A biopsy is a procedure in which a tiny sample or the entire mole is surgically removed for analysis to identify its malignant or benign nature. Your mole therapy is tailored to you based on the findings of the biopsy.
At Moksha Dermatology, we offer surgical removal of moles for both malignant and noncancerous conditions. After numbing the affected region, we remove the mole and any excess skin around it using a surgical scalpel.
When a mole is suspicious for cancer, we may suggest Mohs micrographic surgery since malignant cells can spread into deeper layers of skin.
The malignant parts of your skin are removed carefully, layer by layer, during this procedure. After the tissue is removed, it is analyzed in our on-site laboratory to determine if any more surgical procedures are required to ensure that no cancer cells remain.
As a result, you may rest assured that you will know immediately whether the cancer has returned following therapy. Less scarring occurs as a result of our method since only superficial layers need to be removed. Also, the success rate of Mohs surgery is exceptionally high, at 99% for newly diagnosed tumors and 94% for recurrent tumors.
Don’t put off making an appointment at Moksha Dermatology in Cincinnati, Ohio if you’re worried about a mole. Our skin health experts are here to help!
