A mole check with dermatoscopy is an examination of skin lesions that helps assess the structure of moles, identify suspicious changes and recognise possible signs of skin cancer early. At Baltic American Clinic in Vilnius, a dermatovenereologist examines pigmented and non-pigmented skin lesions and assesses how they have changed and your individual risk of skin cancer. If needed, further tests, removal of the lesion for histological examination or continued monitoring are recommended.
The structure, pigmentation and other features of the lesion are examined, which cannot be assessed accurately with the naked eye.
Possible signs of melanoma and of basal cell and squamous cell skin tumours are assessed.
The number and type of moles, your skin phototype and your personal and family medical history are taken into account.
The doctor determines whether it is enough to monitor the lesion or whether further tests or removal are needed.
When do you need a mole check?
It is recommended to have your moles checked if you notice changes in their appearance or if you have an increased risk of skin cancer.
- A change in size. A mole has started to grow or change shape.
- A change in colour. The lesion has become darker or lighter, or has several colours.
- Irregular borders. The outline of the mole has become uneven or blurred.
- Bleeding or crusting. The mole bleeds, oozes or its surface does not heal.
- A new unusual lesion. A mole has appeared that looks different from your other skin lesions.
- Many moles. You have many pigmented lesions or atypical moles.
- Melanoma in the family. A close relative has been diagnosed with melanoma.
- Previously diagnosed skin cancer. Individually planned monitoring is needed.
- Frequent sunburn. Especially if you had severe sunburn in childhood.
A suspicious mole does not necessarily cause pain or itching. That is why it is important to look at its appearance and any changes.
Which skin lesions can dermatoscopy help assess?
Pigmented moles
Dermatoscopy helps assess the structure of melanocytic moles, the distribution of pigment, symmetry and other features.
Most moles are benign, but lesions that have changed or look atypical should be assessed by a doctor.
Atypical moles
Atypical moles may be larger, irregular in shape or uneven in colour.
Not every atypical mole is malignant, but its features and the patient’s risk factors may mean that further monitoring or tests are needed.
Melanoma
Melanoma is a malignant skin tumour that develops from pigment-producing cells.
It can arise from an existing mole or appear as a new lesion.
Early detection is very important, because treatment results are usually better when melanoma is diagnosed in time.
Basal cell carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a slowly growing nodule, a sore that does not heal or a pinkish patch of skin.
It is not necessarily pigmented, so not only dark moles are assessed.
Squamous cell carcinoma and precancerous changes
These changes may look like a scaly, hardened, painful or non-healing area of skin.
Dermatoscopy can help identify suspicious features and choose further diagnostic tests.
What happens during a mole check?
The doctor discusses changes in your moles, sun exposure, previous skin lesions and any family history of skin cancer.
The lesions you are concerned about are assessed. Depending on the need and the scope of the consultation, other areas of the body may also be examined.
The lesion is examined with a dermatoscope, which shows additional skin structures.
The doctor explains the findings and recommends monitoring, further tests or removal of the lesion.
Dermatoscopy and further diagnostics
Classic dermatoscopy
This is a non-invasive examination using a special optical device.
It is usually painless, does not damage the skin and needs no special preparation.
Histological examination
If the features of a lesion raise suspicion of malignancy, its removal for histological examination may be recommended.
Histological examination allows the tissue to be assessed under a microscope and the diagnosis to be confirmed.
Mole monitoring
For some patients, regular assessment of changes in their moles is recommended.
How often monitoring is needed is decided individually. If a mole starts to change quickly, it should be assessed sooner.
How to prepare for a mole check
- If possible, come without body make-up or concealer on the lesions to be checked.
- Tell the doctor which moles have changed and when you noticed the changes.
- Bring the results of any previous dermatoscopy or histology tests.
- Tell the doctor if you or a close relative have been diagnosed with melanoma.
- If you have earlier photos of your moles, they can help assess changes.
Frequently asked questions
Is dermatoscopy painful?
No. The skin is not damaged during the examination, so it usually causes no pain.
Can dermatoscopy detect melanoma?
It helps recognise suspicious features, but a definitive diagnosis of melanoma is made by histological examination.
Do all moles need to be checked?
That depends on the number and type of your moles and your individual risk. The doctor decides whether it is enough to assess a specific lesion or whether a wider skin examination is needed.
Is a dangerous mole always dark?
No. Some melanomas contain little pigment or are pinkish. It is important to assess all new and changing lesions.
Does an itchy mole mean cancer?
Not necessarily. Itching can be caused by irritation or other reasons, but new, persistent itching together with changes in the lesion is a reason to see a doctor.
Can a mole be removed as a precaution?
Whether a benign mole needs to be removed is decided individually. The mere presence of a mole does not mean it has to be removed.
Is a histological examination needed after mole removal?
When malignancy is suspected, histological examination is essential to confirm the diagnosis. In other cases, the doctor decides on the need based on the type of lesion and the removal method.
Do children need their moles checked?
Yes, if a mole has suspicious features, changes unusually or there are other medical indications. Changes in children’s moles are assessed with their age in mind.
Do sunbeds increase the risk of melanoma?
Yes. Exposure to artificial ultraviolet radiation increases the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma.
Is a mole check once a year enough?
The same interval does not apply to everyone. Patients at higher risk may need more frequent monitoring, and if you notice a suspicious change you should seek advice without waiting for your scheduled check.
Do I need a referral for a mole check?
No, you do not need a referral from a doctor when booking a paid consultation.
Price of a mole check and dermatoscopy
The price of a mole check and dermatoscopy is set by the Baltic American Clinic price list in force. Any additional tests or procedures that may be needed are charged separately and discussed during the consultation.