Mole Checks & Assessment of Suspicious Moles in Tenerife

Moles can naturally change over time, but noticeable or progressive growth should be assessed — particularly when the change occurs over a relatively short period.

Growth may be completely benign, but it can also be one of the features that requires closer examination.

We examine the mole and assess its size, shape, colour, borders and overall appearance.

Dermatoscopy may be used to examine structures within the lesion that cannot be properly evaluated with the naked eye.

If suspicious features are identified, further assessment, biopsy or removal may be recommended.

Some moles naturally contain different shades of brown. However, a new change in colour or the development of several colours within one lesion can require medical assessment.

Particular attention should be given to lesions developing unusual areas of dark brown, black, red, blue, white or other colour changes.

The lesion can be examined clinically and with dermatoscopy where appropriate.

Based on its characteristics, we can determine whether it appears benign, should be monitored or requires further investigation.

Many harmless moles are relatively symmetrical and have regular borders.

A mole that develops an irregular shape, becomes asymmetrical or has poorly defined or uneven borders may require closer examination.

We assess the overall structure of the lesion and look for features associated with atypical or suspicious moles.

Dermatoscopy provides a magnified view of structures and pigmentation patterns within the lesion and can help determine the appropriate next step.

New moles and skin lesions are common and are not automatically dangerous.

Nevertheless, a newly appearing lesion — particularly one that continues to grow, changes rapidly or looks different from your other moles — should be assessed.

We examine the lesion to determine whether it has the characteristics of a common benign mole or another type of skin lesion.

If the diagnosis is uncertain or suspicious features are present, additional specialist assessment or biopsy may be recommended.

Sometimes the most important warning sign is simply that one mole looks noticeably different from all the others. This is sometimes described as the “ugly duckling sign.”

The lesion may be darker, lighter, larger, differently shaped or simply have a different appearance from the patient’s usual pattern of moles.

We compare the suspicious lesion with the surrounding moles and assess its individual characteristics.

If it appears atypical, dermatoscopy and further evaluation can help determine whether monitoring, biopsy or removal is appropriate.

A mole may occasionally bleed because it has been scratched or irritated by clothing.

However, spontaneous or repeated bleeding, crusting or ulceration without an obvious cause should be medically assessed.

We examine the lesion and surrounding skin to determine whether the bleeding is likely to be caused by irritation or whether suspicious changes are present.

Further investigation or biopsy can be arranged when medically indicated.

Occasional irritation does not necessarily indicate a serious problem, especially when a mole is repeatedly rubbed by clothing or jewellery.

Persistent itching, tenderness, pain or other new sensations within a mole should nevertheless be evaluated, particularly when accompanied by visible changes.

We assess both the mole and the surrounding skin to identify signs of irritation, inflammation or other changes.

If necessary, further investigation or treatment can be recommended.

Ultraviolet radiation from the sun is an important risk factor for several types of skin cancer.

People who have experienced significant cumulative sun exposure or repeated sunburn — particularly during childhood — should pay close attention to new or changing skin lesions.

Living in or frequently visiting a sunny climate such as Tenerife makes appropriate sun protection and awareness of skin changes particularly important.

We can assess concerning moles and other pigmented lesions and determine whether any require closer examination, monitoring or further investigation.

Some completely benign moles are located in areas where they are repeatedly irritated by clothing, shaving, jewellery or normal daily activity.

Although irritation itself does not mean that a mole is dangerous, repeatedly inflamed or injured lesions can become uncomfortable.

The mole should first be assessed to confirm that it appears benign.

If removal is medically appropriate or desired because of repeated irritation, the available options can be discussed.

Sometimes examination alone cannot provide sufficient certainty about the nature of a skin lesion.

In these situations, examination of tissue under a microscope may be required to establish a definitive diagnosis.

If a lesion requires further investigation, a biopsy or complete surgical removal may be recommended.

The tissue can then be sent for histopathological examination, where it is analysed microscopically.

If further treatment is required based on the result, the appropriate next steps can then be arranged.