Skin Cancer Screening and Mole Checks in Bangkok

• Mole with abnormal shape is often a marker for cancerous moles.
• The best way to find out if any mole could be problematic is with a regular body scan.
• People with more than 100 moles have seven times higher risk of developing melanoma than people with fewer moles.
• Do not take moles lightly; they might indicate melanoma, and the sooner they are detected the better.

Case Study: A Mole That Turned Cancerous

Mr X found a new mole on his arm. He felt it was unsightly and came in to the hospital for a removal. Under magnification, we found that the mole was abnormal in shape. This is often a marker for cancerous moles. It was just 2 mm in size and we could cut it out quickly. A pathologist confirmed that it was malignant. If he had delayed seeking medical attention even a little, maybe by just 6 months, he would have needed additional investigation and treatment, including:

• Sampling his lymph nodes
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation
• Plastic surgery to cover the surgical scar

Why Do Moles Change Over Time?

Among most people, moles change all through their life, from birth till death. They grow darker or lighter, they get bigger, and they disappear. Some moles simply mature over a lifetime, while others are attacked by the body’s immune system. A few others can mutate to become cancerous.

Factors that contribute to these changes include:

• Genetic predisposition
• Environment
• Hormones
• Exposure to sunlight
• Oxidative stress
• Metabolism
• Pollution

Self-Check: How to Monitor Moles at Home

It is important to keep track of your moles and find out which ones are new, which ones are growing, and which ones are a cause for concern. The best way to find out if any mole could be problematic is with a regular body scan.
Make a monthly home scan part of your schedule:

• Use a mirror and study each part of your body
• Keep track of moles all over your body
• Ask a friend or family member to help check your back and scalp

If you find any moles anywhere on your body, schedule an annual total body mapping and mole analysis at the hospital.
 

Skin Cancer Screening with FotoFinder

As with all cancers, the earlier we detect a melanoma, the easier it is to treat. The best time to detect a melanoma is when it is small and doesn’t go beyond the epidermis. At the hospital, Skin Cancer Screening with FotoFinder provides a reliable method for early detection:

• Monitoring of the entire skin and each individual mole
• Examination and analysis from head to toe in minimal time
• Regular check-ups to show changes at the earliest stage
• Avoidance of unnecessary surgery

During screening, 20 pictures of your entire body from head to toe are taken. Each section is then checked for atypical moles with a dermoscope, and results are recorded and crosschecked every year. This allows doctors not only to track new moles but also to monitor existing ones that may be changing in shape, size, or color.

With a high magnification polarized camera, doctors can also see the structure of the mole beneath the first layer of the dermis. This is especially important for people with many moles, photoaging, or a history of melanoma.
 

The ABCDE Rule for Identifying Melanoma

It is recommended that you follow the ABCDE rule of moles:

• A – Asymmetry: A symmetrical mole is usually safe. An asymmetrical mole requires a doctor’s attention.
• B – Border: A clear border is safe. A jagged or wavy border is concerning.
• C – Color: Uniform color is safe. Two or more colors need a doctor’s attention.
• D – Diameter: Any mole larger than 6 mm should be checked by a specialist.
• E – Evolution: Any new or changing mole is a possible danger sign.

Other warning signs include moles that are:

• Flaking
• Oozing
• Itching
• Bleeding
• Leaking

What Are Melanomas?

Not all moles are melanomas and not all melanomas are moles. However, melanoma is responsible for the greatest number of deaths related to skin cancer.

Melanomas are a malignant version of the melanocyte cells. Melanocytes are found in the top-most layer of the skin, producing melanin that protects against the sun’s harmful rays. Sometimes, these melanocytes mutate and become dangerous.

Protecting Yourself from Skin Cancer

While melanomas cannot be prevented entirely, you can lower your risk:

• Protect yourself from the sun with light clothing
• Use sunscreen with SPF for your face and hands
• Schedule monthly checkups and annual mole mapping
• Opt for a biopsy if screening raises any red flags

Stages of Melanoma and Treatment Options

Melanomas are classified in stages 0 to 4:

• Stage 0: Easy to treat and remove
• Stage 4: Spread to other parts of the body, often requiring radiation or chemotherapy

Consult Our Dermatology Specialists

If you notice any suspicious changes in your moles or would like peace of mind through professional screening, our specialized dermatologists are here to help. Schedule a consultation at Samitivej Hospital for expert skin cancer screening and personalized care. Early detection can make all the difference.