Most moles are harmless, and most people have some. What matters is not having them, it is that a mole changes, or that it looks like no other. In Marrakech, Dr Sara Zahid, dermatologist in Guéliz, checks moles with dermoscopy, a painless examination with a dermatoscope that lets us see the structure of a mole beneath the skin’s surface, far better than with the naked eye.
A for asymmetry, B for irregular borders, C for uneven colour (several shades), D for a diameter larger than a pencil eraser, E for evolution: a mole that changes within weeks or months. A single sign does not mean cancer, but deserves an opinion.
A mole that does not look like the person’s others draws attention, even if it ticks few criteria. This comparative eye is valuable, particularly in people with many moles.
A mole that itches, bleeds, forms a crust that does not heal, becomes raised or appears in adulthood. A dark spot under a nail, on the palm or under the foot also counts, even on dark skin, where melanoma is less common but often affects these areas.
An examination of the whole skin, from scalp to feet, dermoscopy of suspicious moles, follow-up photographs if needed. If a mole looks doubtful, Dr Zahid proposes removing it, and having it analysed in the laboratory.
A check of the whole skin once a year is a common benchmark, closer together if you have many moles, a personal or family history of melanoma, or fair skin heavily exposed. Dr Zahid sets the pace with you.
Not necessarily, but a mole that itches, bleeds or changes should be examined.
No, it is a painless, quick examination with no preparation.
Yes, more rarely, often on the palm, the sole of the foot or under a nail. Hence the value of examining these areas.
It can be removed if it bothers you or looks doubtful. Removal is done at the clinic, and the mole is analysed if needed.
Mostly in childhood and adolescence. A new mole in adulthood deserves more attention.
If they have many moles, a large mole from birth or a family history of melanoma.
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