While many of us may overlook those small dark spots known as moles, their presence, especially when changed or newly developed, can be crucial for your skin health. At Northstar Dermatology in Southlake, TX, our board-certified dermatologists emphasize the importance of regular mole checks to prevent potential health hazards like melanoma, the deadliest skin cancer form. Whether you’re keen on enhancing your aesthetic appeal or you’re apprehensive about a mole’s sudden change, we’re here to assist. Simply call our office or book your appointment online.
Moles are essentially clusters of melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in our skin, resulting in pigmented skin lesions. While a majority of moles are benign, they hold the potential to evolve into melanoma, the most lethal skin cancer variant.
The culprits behind melanocyte DNA damage, which can lead to the rapid growth characteristic of melanoma, include the harmful UV rays from the sun and tanning beds. Early detection and removal are paramount for melanoma treatment. Northstar Dermatology emphasizes this as untreated melanoma, when given the chance to spread, becomes exceedingly challenging to manage, often with fatal outcomes.
It’s essential to stay vigilant about the moles on your body. Reach out to Northstar Dermatology if you observe a mole that:
The aforementioned symptoms can indicate potentially malignant changes in a mole. On another note, moles can also be bothersome due to their location, becoming prone to irritation from clothing or accessories.
Consulting with Northstar Dermatology ensures a meticulous evaluation of any concerning mole, complemented by a thorough skin examination to rule out other underlying issues. If an aberrant mole is flagged, the go-to treatment involves its removal, either via a shave biopsy or excision.
In the shave biopsy, the dermatologist employs a slender blade to shear off the mole, whereas an excision entails the mole’s removal along with a small perimeter of the surrounding healthy skin.
The excised tissue is dispatched to a lab for a comprehensive analysis, checking for cancerous cells and verifying if the entire malignant region was successfully excised.
For any uncertainties or concerns regarding moles or other skin irregularities, Northstar Dermatology remains at your beck and call. Reach out over the phone or schedule an appointment online.
