A dysplastic mole (naevus) is an intermediary form between a regular naevus and melanoma. Such naevi may occur at any age and grow into melanoma in the course of time. They differ from benign neoplasms by some visible signs. Therefore, it is necessary to check the moles in accordance with the ABCDE rule which characterises the following manifestations of melanoma: asymmetry, border irregularity, colour variegation, diameter (> 6 mm), erythema and elevation. In case a mole matches 1 or more of these criteria, it is necessary to contact an oncologist or dermatologist.
Melanoma is the most aggressive and dangerous skin neoplasm formed of cells producing the dark pigment melanin.
The number of people affected by melanoma is growing rapidly all over the world. In Lithuania, 1,800 new skin cancer cases and 200 new melanoma cases are detected every year. Most likely, the main cause of this trend is the increased exposure to sources of natural and artificial light.
Besides, the risk to be affected by skin cancer or melanoma depends on the physical properties of the skin (light or freckled skin, light eyes, light or red hair), inheritance, and age. Melanoma ranks second among cancer types causing women’s mortality.
In most cases (in 90 per cent of all cases) melanoma develops on the skin; however, it can also occur on the retina, brain covers, mucosa, and in viscerals. Melanoma may appear both on plain skin or develop from a mole.
Melanoma spreads rapidly both on the skin surface and depthwards into the skin. Metastases occur in lymphoglandulas, on the skin, and in visceras.
Prevention – self-protection decreases the probability of melanoma and other malignant skin diseases significantly. Therefore, one should know that it is necessary to avoid active sun, to use high sun protection factors, and to observe skin regularly.
When should surgery be performed?
Changed (also called atypical or dysplastic) pigmental moles can be subject to surgical removal. Such moles must be constantly monitored (data about them is accumulated in an electronic visual database in order ensure evaluation of changes in dynamics) or should be removed surgically and undergo histological examination.
If the naevus is suspected to be atypical on the basis of dermatoscopical and siascopical investigation carried out by a dermatology oncologist, biopsy may be required for its histological examination.
The results of the examination will determine the scope of excision and selection of the surgery method. In case of timely detection of such a mole and surgery, melanoma will be prevented from reoccurring in the future.
Moles located in inconvenient places of the body such as near the ear, in the flank area, and in the knee bend can also be removed surgically.
It is very important to ensure that surgical removal of a pigmental mole would leave as little scars as possible and to make them less noticeable. This is determined not only by the method of removal of the mole, but also by its location (e.g. on the chest or back), performance technique as well as professional and thorough care of the wound.
Consultations on the out-patient wound care will be provided by the doctor that conducted the surgery.