Dr. Ku Lap Shing, Simon's Profile

Moles, Atypical moles & Melanoma…..what you need to know

Melanoma is one of the most dangerous cancers of human. It can arise de novo or transforms from a pre-existing mole. While almost everybody has moles, what do we need to know about the risk of our moles and what do we need to watch out for?

Not all moles are dangerous, in fact, majority of the moles remain benign throughout one’s life. It takes years for a mole to transform to a melanoma, if it does change. During this transformation process, very often the mole appears atypical, namely getting bigger, becoming asymmetrical in shape with irregular borders and variegated colors. In terms of behavior, these moles may increase in size, often asymmetrically, giving rise to change in shape. They may also change in color, becoming darker or lighter focally. These atypical moles, if biopsied, may harbor abnormal dysplastic cells that may be on their way transforming to melanoma cells. It takes years to complete the malignant transformation. Thus, it is crucial to pick up these changing moles at the earliest stage possible in order to avoid the final possible deadly melanoma. Practically, a mole should be biopsed if there is change in SIZE, COLOR or SHAPE. Have your moles checked once a year by Dermatologists, especially if you have a fair skin type. Biopsy any suspicious moles or skin lesions that appear abnormal. Patients with many atypical moles are at higher risk of getting a melanoma. Patients with family history of multiple atypical moles and or family history of melanoma are at even higher risk. These patients need to have their skin checked more regularly.

Prevention is better than cure. Pick them up before they become melanomas.

Provider: Dr Simon KU - Specialist in Dermatology
Founder: e-daifu.com