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The Sun Also Has A Dark Side
In recent years the number of melanoma cases has increased significantly. 1 of 100 diagnosed skin tumors is a malignant melanoma. It can arise from existing moles or healthy skin. Although melanoma is 100% curable if diagnosed early, many patients die from skin cancer if not detected in time. The most significant risk factor is excessive exposure to sunlight. Therefore avoid intensive sunbathing and keep an eye on your skin!
Mole mapping is the most advanced method for early diagnosis of skin cancer. With a medical camera microscopic photos of your at risk moles are taken. Additionally overview images of your body to localise the moles and be able to find them again are taken. The mole images are stored in a digital database after analysis.
At follow up examinations the mole images are taken again and can then be compared with the first images to detect even the slightest change and therefore possible skin cancer at an early stage. This observation helps prevent unnecessary excisions of moles.
The A B C D E of moles
A for Asymmetry
B for irregular, blurred or jagged Borders
C for Colour variation
D for diameter larger than 5mm
E for Elevation especially when uneven or evolution (changes over time)
Any alteration is an alarm signal!
Changes in colour
Decrease or increase in size
Changes in the surrounding skin
Itchiness, sores or odd sensation
Bleeding moles
Newly appeared moles (especially in patients over 25 years)
Who is at risk?
If any of the following applies to you, please have your moles checked.
Light sensitive skin
Multiple moles (more than 50)
Family history of skin cancer
Melanoma in your own medical history
Large congenital moles
Recently changed or conspicuous moles
Did you suffer from severe sunburn as a child or adolescent?.
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