Mole Mapping: Why Regular Skin Checks Matter, Even During Autumn and Winter
During summer, we seem more inclined to take care of our skin. Perhaps it’s because more of it is exposed, because we touch it more frequently when applying sunscreen and moisturiser, or simply because we see more of it.
We may notice small changes that tend to go unnoticed during the colder months, when our skin is concealed beneath layers of clothing.
Yet looking after our skin and our health should never be seasonal.
Mole mapping is one of the dermatological assessments that may form part of regular skin surveillance, including during autumn and winter. There are two particularly important reasons to consider it.
What Is Melanoma?
Moles, also known as melanocytic naevi, are generally benign skin lesions made up of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin.
Almost everyone has moles, although their number varies considerably from person to person.
Some moles may change in shape or colour over time. While most changes are benign, certain changes can indicate melanoma, a malignant tumour arising from melanocytes.
Melanoma is one of the most serious forms of skin cancer because, in advanced cases, it can spread to other parts of the body.
However, when detected at an early stage, it is often highly treatable.
The original article cites a 98.4% survival figure for early-stage melanoma, referring to data from the Melanoma Research Alliance. Prognosis varies according to the stage at diagnosis and other clinical factors.
Sometimes melanoma is discovered entirely by chance.
“A patient may come in for a consultation about something completely unrelated, and during the examination I notice a suspicious mole,” explains Dr Martina Lambertini, a dermatologist and venereologist based in Bologna.
“On other occasions, a family member notices an unusual mole and encourages the person to have it checked. It is also quite common for hairdressers to spot suspicious lesions while washing someone’s hair.”
Melanoma is a malignant tumour that develops from melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin and give the skin its colour.
It does not occur exclusively on the skin of the body. It can also develop on the scalp, on mucous membranes, including those of the mouth and genital area, and beneath the nails, where it is known as subungual melanoma.
Not all melanomas are brown or black. Some appear pink or skin-coloured; these are known as amelanotic melanomas.
Risk Factors for Melanoma
- Sun exposure: Avoid sunburn and excessive cumulative UV exposure. Use appropriate sun protection regularly and avoid tanning beds. The original article also mentions sun supplements, although these should not be regarded as a substitute for sunscreen or other established protective measures.
- A high number of moles: People with numerous melanocytic naevi may benefit from regular dermatological monitoring and, where clinically appropriate, digital mole mapping.
- Fair skin phototype: People with fair skin and light-coloured eyes, particularly those who burn easily or develop freckles, may have an increased risk.
- Family history: Having a first- or second-degree relative diagnosed with melanoma can be an important risk factor.
When Should You Have Your Moles Checked?
“There are two main situations in which mole mapping may be recommended,” explains Dr Martina Lambertini.
“The first is as part of regular dermatological surveillance, even when there are no visible changes or suspicious lesions.
“The second is when a mole shows a noticeable change in appearance.
“In these cases, we sometimes refer to the ‘ugly duckling sign’: a mole that looks distinctly different from the others on the person’s skin.
“It is also extremely useful to understand the ABCDE rule for recognising potentially suspicious moles.”
The ABCDE Rule: When Should a Mole Raise Concern?
- A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole differs in shape from the other.
- B – Border: The edges are irregular, uneven or poorly defined.
- C – Colour: The mole contains several shades, potentially including brown, black, grey or blue.
- D – Diameter: The lesion measures more than 6 mm across.
- E – Evolution: The mole changes in size, shape, colour or other characteristics over time.
These features are warning signs rather than a diagnosis. A suspicious lesion should be assessed by a dermatologist, including when it measures less than 6 mm.
What Does a Mole Mapping Examination Involve?
Mole mapping is a non-invasive dermatological examination that allows the specialist to assess pigmented skin lesions and identify potentially suspicious changes.
It can help distinguish benign lesions from those requiring further investigation, including lesions that may be associated with melanoma.
The examination usually begins with a visual skin assessment, during which the dermatologist examines the skin with the naked eye.
A dermatoscope is then used to magnify individual lesions and examine structures that are not readily visible without specialised equipment.
This technique, known as dermoscopy or epiluminescence microscopy, uses magnification and specialised illumination to provide a more detailed view of the skin.
In some cases, digital videodermoscopy may also be performed. This allows high-resolution images of individual moles to be recorded and stored, making it possible to compare their appearance during subsequent examinations.
If a lesion is considered suspicious for malignancy, the dermatologist may recommend surgical excision and histopathological examination.
How Should You Prepare for the Examination?
A mole check is painless and generally takes approximately 30 minutes.
No special preparation is usually required, although patients should be aware that a comprehensive skin examination may involve undressing so that the dermatologist can assess the entire skin surface, including areas that are not normally exposed.
Avoiding make-up and nail polish can make certain areas easier to examine.
Trimming a thick beard may also help improve visibility of the underlying skin where necessary.
How Often Should You Have Your Moles Checked?
The recommended frequency depends on the dermatologist’s assessment and the presence of individual risk factors for melanoma.
For people without significant risk factors, the original article suggests a dermatological examination every two to three years.
For those with an increased risk, the specialist may recommend annual monitoring or, in selected cases, examinations every six months.
The most appropriate interval should always be determined according to the individual’s clinical history, skin characteristics and dermatological findings.
Free Mole Checks
An increasing number of pharmaceutical and dermatological brands are raising awareness of melanoma prevention and early detection by organising campaigns offering free mole checks.
During the summer, Cantabria Labs launched its “Heliocare Cerca Il Tuo Neo” campaign, encouraging people to undergo dermatological screening.
The strong public response was a positive indication of growing awareness of skin health and the importance of prevention.
Across 19 screening days, a total of 1,522 consultations were carried out.
These examinations identified three cases of melanoma, along with several suspicious lesions requiring further investigation.
The campaign’s dedicated call centre received 4,211 telephone calls from people wishing to book an appointment.
In addition, 1,522 questionnaires covering medical history and sun exposure habits were completed, with the collected information intended to contribute to a scientific publication.
The original article also cites an estimate of approximately 186,680 new melanoma cases in the United States during 2023, attributing the figure to the FDA.
Australia continues to be recognised as a country with a particularly high melanoma burden, especially among populations of European ancestry.
Education from an early age, greater awareness of the harmful effects of excessive UV exposure, and access to preventive dermatological assessments all play an important role in encouraging earlier diagnosis.
Screening initiatives and free public awareness campaigns can help people recognise suspicious skin changes and seek specialist advice promptly.
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