When it comes to skin health, understanding the differences between moles and skin cancer is crucial. While moles are common and usually harmless, certain changes in their appearance may indicate a more serious condition, such as melanoma, an aggressive type of skin cancer. Consulting a dermatologist in Singapore can help diagnose and manage potential concerns effectively.
Moles, or melanocytic nevi, are growths on the skin that are typically brown or black, though they can also be pink in people with fair complexion. They occur due to clusters of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. Most people have at least a few moles, and they can appear anywhere on the body. Some moles develop naturally, while others may emerge due to sun exposure. There is a genetic basis for the number of moles one may develop – some people have more moles because their parents also have many moles.
Congenital melanocytic nevi are usually present at birth or shortly after birth. They are also called brown birthmarks. Moles that resemble congenital nevi but develop later in life are called “congenital-type nevi” or “tardive” nevi.
Congenital melanocytic nevi are usually classified according to their size:
Congenital melanocytic nevi usually enlarges as the child grows and then becomes stable in size. They are often very dark in colour, rise above the surrounding skin and have a bumpy surface. Congenital nevi may also display increased hairs (hypertrichosis). Some congenital nevi have smaller nevi called satellite lesions, which are found at the periphery of the main nevus.
The majority of congenital melanocytic nevi are benign (non-cancerous) and may be left alone. The risk of melanoma (an aggressive type of skin cancer that arises from melanocytes) is increased, but mostly for large or giant congenital nevi or those with multiple satellite lesions. The decision whether and how to treat a congenital nevus should be discussed with your dermatologist.
Spitz nevi are an uncommon type of mole. They are typically seen in children, especially those with fair skin. Spitz nevi are benign growths but are notable because they often resemble melanoma, both from their clinical appearance and under the microscope. For this reason, Spitz nevi are usually surgically removed.
A few variants of Spitz nevi exist:
Spitz nevi may be suspected when your dermatologist examines the mole using a specialised device called the dermatoscope.
Atypical melanocytic nevi are moles with unusual features. Older terms used to describe such moles include Clark naevus and B-K mole. The term “atypical nevus” is sometimes used on any mole that appears funny looking and sometimes applied to a mole that is suspicious for melanoma.
An atypical naevus may include the following features:
Atypical nevi may occur by chance or sometimes run in families, in a condition called Familial atypical multiple mole and melanoma (FAMMM) or dysplastic nevus syndrome. People with this condition have a large number of atypical nevi and have a higher risk of developing melanoma.
Atypical or dysplastic nevi can resemble melanoma. They should be seen by a dermatologist in Singapore who is experienced in dermatoscopy. Suspicious or changing atypical nevi should be surgically removed and sent for biopsy to confirm if they are benign. Atypical nevi should not simply be removed by laser without a biopsy. If it is the decision between the patient and dermatologist not to remove the atypical nevus, then it may be helpful to keep photographic records of the mole to monitor for any changes.
Careful sun protection is recommended for everyone but is especially important for people with multiple atypical nevi. For tips on sun protection, read our articles “Tips for Sunscreen Use: Protect Your Skin from Sun Damage” and “The Truth About Sunscreen: Separating Myths from Facts”.
Skin cancer occurs due to uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the skin. There are several types of skin cancer, but the most concerning form linked to moles is melanoma. Melanoma develops in melanocytes, the same cells that create moles, making it critical to monitor any mole-related changes.
Types of skin cancer:
1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common and least aggressive form.
2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Can metastasise or spread if left untreated.
3. Melanoma: The most dangerous form of skin cancer, often originating from existing moles.
Early detection is key in managing skin cancer. If you notice suspicious skin changes, seeking guidance from a skin cancer doctor in Singapore can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment.
A simple way to distinguish between benign moles and potential melanoma is by following the ABCDE rule:
If a mole exhibits any of these signs, booking an appointment with a skin doctor in Singapore is highly recommended.
Certain factors increase the likelihood of skin cancer, including:
Regular skin checks by a dermatologist can help assess and reduce risks.
To minimise your risk of developing skin cancer, consider the following tips:
If you’re concerned about a mole or need expert advice on skin health, visiting a dermatologist clinic in Singapore is essential. At TSN Dermatology Skin Specialist Clinic, our dermatologists offer advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options tailored to individual needs. Remember, early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes!
Common moles, dysplastic nevi, and risk of melanoma. (2022, November 17). Cancer.gov. https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin/moles-fact-sheet
Bhatt, M., Nabatian, A., Kriegel, D., & Khorasani, H. (2016). Does an increased number of moles correlate to a higher risk of melanoma?. Melanoma management, 3(2), 85–87. https://doi.org/10.2217/mmt-2016-0001
How to do a skin Self-Exam | Examine your skin. (n.d.). American Cancer Society. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/sun-and-uv/skin-exams.html
Read about new advances in skin care.
