How do I recognize the difference between a mole and skin cancer?
October 9, 2023 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Bernd Schlosser
Dear Dermatologist,
My name is Dirk Voigt and I am reaching out to you because I am unsure how to differentiate between a mole and skin cancer. There have been cases of skin cancer in my family, so I am concerned about my skin health.
Recently, I have noticed various spots and moles forming on my skin. Some have been there for a while, while others are new. I am particularly unsure about one of these spots, whether it is a harmless mole or a sign of skin cancer.
The spot is asymmetrical with irregular borders. It is also changing in size and color. It occasionally itches and feels slightly raised. These changes are causing me great concern and I want to make sure I act promptly if it is indeed skin cancer.
My question to you is how I can differentiate between a mole and skin cancer. Are there specific characteristics I should look out for? Should I have this spot examined by a dermatologist? What treatment options would be available to me in case of a skin cancer diagnosis?
I look forward to your expert opinion and thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Dirk Voigt
Dear Dirk Voigt,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as a dermatologist. It is understandable that you are concerned about your skin health, especially if there have been cases of skin cancer in your family. It is important to take changes in the skin seriously and to consult a specialist if in doubt.
The difference between a mole and skin cancer can sometimes be difficult to recognize, as skin changes can evolve over time. A mole, also known as a nevus, is usually harmless and shows no changes in shape, color, or size. Moles can be flat or slightly raised and are usually evenly pigmented. They generally do not cause any discomfort such as itching or pain.
Skin cancer, on the other hand, can take various forms, including malignant melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Some signs of skin cancer include asymmetric shapes, irregular borders, changes in color and size, as well as itching, pain, or bleeding. Therefore, if you notice changes in a mole or spot that do not match the usual characteristics of a mole, it is advisable to have it examined by a dermatologist.
During the examination, the dermatologist will carefully inspect the spot and may perform a skin biopsy to determine if it is skin cancer. In the event of a diagnosis of skin cancer, there are various treatment options available, depending on the type and stage of the cancer. These may include surgical removal of the tumor, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy.
Therefore, I recommend that you have the concerning spot examined by a dermatologist as soon as possible to receive an accurate diagnosis and potentially start treatment early. Do not hesitate to contact me again if you have any further questions or uncertainties.
Best regards,
Bernd Schlosser, Dermatologist
