Mole checks

What does a mole check include?

Mole checks are a central part of skin cancer screening. Pigmented moles (nevi) and other skin changes are examined systematically — ideally with dermoscopy. The aim is to detect suspicious findings early and classify harmless changes safely.

Focus areas include malignant melanoma (black skin cancer), basal cell carcinomas (often called “white skin cancer”), squamous cell carcinomas, and precursors such as actinic keratoses. Benign changes such as seborrheic keratoses or angiomas are also distinguished, so unnecessary worry and unnecessary procedures can be avoided.

This page provides general information and does not replace an individual screening visit. If a mole is growing quickly, bleeding, or changing markedly, do not wait for a distant routine appointment — present promptly.

For whom is screening especially important?

Checks are useful for all adults — and especially with many moles, family history, fair skin, intensive UV exposure in the past, or previously treated skin cancer. If a mole itches, bleeds, grows, or changes in shape or colour, present promptly.

Parents bring children and adolescents when new or conspicuous pigmented moles appear. At the practice, examination and explanation are age-appropriate: which findings to observe and which to investigate. Early advice on UV protection is often part of the conversation.

People with high occupational or leisure sun exposure — outdoor work, water sports, or repeated past tanning-bed use — also benefit from structured screening. Intervals are adapted to risk and prior findings, not a one-size-fits-all formula.

Our approach at the practice

Dr. Mahitab Khalifa-Paruch performs mole checks in a structured, understandable way: systematic full-body review where indicated, dermoscopic detail assessment, and clear recommendations. Suspicious changes can — after counselling — be removed for histological clarification.

For suitable findings, such as actinic keratoses or selected basal cell carcinomas, photodynamic therapy (PDT) may be discussed if medically appropriate. Whether PDT, surgery, or observation is considered depends on individual findings and is decided on site — without blanket success promises. Follow-up intervals are also adapted to your personal risk.

What to expect at your visit

Please avoid make-up and heavily covering creams if possible so the skin can be assessed well. After the history (UV habits, prior disease, family history) comes the examination. Mention sites you yourself notice as new or changed.

Conspicuous sites are documented and discussed: observation with follow-up, excision, or further therapy. You receive guidance on self-checks (e.g. ABCDE features) and sensible UV protection — complementary to, not a substitute for, specialist review.

Follow-up after clarification or therapy

After removal of a mole or other skin change, the histological result is discussed and the next check interval set. After PDT or other procedures, you receive advice on care and observation of treated areas — such as UV protection and expected skin reactions.

Regular screening intervals depend on risk and prior findings. For new or changing moles, do not wait until the next routine visit — contact us earlier. Website text does not replace emergency or acute assessment.