Not because it itches, hurts, or has changed shape, but perhaps it simply bothers you. Maybe it catches on your bra strap or you don’t like its appearance. Can you just have it removed by a cosmetologist, or should you seek another specialist? How should you go about removing unwanted moles, and should the doctor send every removed growth for histology?
Any growths removed from the skin’s surface should be subjected to histological examination (a method of studying tissue samples under a microscope) to rule out the risk of cancer. Yes, even if it’s just a papilloma. In practice, however, there are nuances.
Melanocytic Neoplasms (Moles) Should Not Be Removed Without a Dermatologist-Oncologist’s Examination
The dermatologist-oncologist must perform an examination with a dermatoscope to see the boundaries of the growth and the nature of melanin granule distribution – the pigment that colors moles brown. In practice, doctors who proceed with removal without an oncological examination often do not diagnose melanocytic neoplasms correctly. It’s common for doctors to mistakenly think they are removing a papilloma, keratoma, angioma, or pigmented spot instead of a mole. The preliminary diagnosis depends on the specialist’s qualification and experience.
A Mole Is More Than What We See on the Surface
What’s the danger of removing moles without histology? Not everything is visible to the naked eye. Moles have a surface part that is visually apparent, but their base lies in the basal layer of the skin. Melanocytes are located at a depth. A doctor can see the surface but cannot assess what is happening internally.
When you have a mole removed in a cosmetic clinic (usually by laser, as cosmetologists do not surgically excise moles), the procedure essentially burns the skin, leaving crusts and erosions on the surface. With this scenario, it’s hard to be 100% sure where the coagulated blood is and where the remnants of the mole are. Over time, this skin area heals, the color is restored, and only then can it be determined if the mole has been entirely removed. If the mole was “bad” inside, and it was merely resurfaced on the outside, the malignant “remnant” will persist and continue to pose a risk.
To safely remove a mole, always consult a dermatologist-oncologist first. They can accurately diagnose and ensure proper and complete removal. Any growths taken off the skin should be sent for histological examination to rule out cancer. Avoid having moles removed solely by cosmetologists without a thorough medical examination and follow-up histology to prevent potential health risks.
Leave a Reply