When Should You Get a Mole Checked? Dermoscopy Explained

Most people have between 10 and 40 moles on their body, and the vast majority are completely harmless. However, a small proportion of moles can develop into melanoma — the most serious form of skin cancer. Early detection is critical: melanoma caught at an early stage has a survival rate of over 98%, while advanced melanoma is much harder to treat.

The ABCDE Rule: Know Your Moles

Dermatologists use the ABCDE rule to help identify potentially concerning moles:

• A — Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn't match the other
• B — Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred
• C — Colour: Uneven colouring — shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue within a single mole
• D — Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser), though melanomas can be smaller
• E — Evolving: Any change in size, shape, colour, or the development of new symptoms (bleeding, itching, crusting)

If a mole shows any of these features, or if you simply feel uncertain about it, booking a dermatological review is the right decision. Don't wait — changes to moles should always be assessed promptly.

What Is Dermoscopy?

Dermoscopy (also called dermatoscopy) is a non-invasive diagnostic technique that allows dermatologists to examine skin lesions in high magnification and detail. A handheld device called a dermoscope illuminates and magnifies the skin structure beneath the surface — revealing features invisible to the naked eye.

This technology dramatically increases the accuracy of mole assessment. Studies show that trained dermatologists using dermoscopy detect melanoma with significantly greater accuracy than visual inspection alone. For patients, the procedure is completely painless — the dermoscope is gently pressed against the skin and held in place for a few seconds while the doctor examines the lesion.

What Happens at a Mole Check Appointment?

A mole check usually begins with a full skin examination. You will be asked about any moles you are concerned about, your skin history, family history of skin cancer, and sun exposure habits.

Lesions of concern are examined closely, and where monitoring is recommended, photographic records are taken for comparison at future appointments. If a suspicious lesion is identified, the next step may include referral for biopsy or removal.

Who Should Get a Mole Check?

A full skin check is generally recommended for anyone who:

• Has a personal or family history of melanoma or skin cancer
• Has a large number of moles (more than 50)
• Has fair skin, light hair, or light eyes — particularly if they burn easily
• Has had significant sun exposure or used sunbeds regularly
• Has noticed any change in an existing mole

When in doubt, have the mole assessed. Our GP team at Elite Medical & Dental Clinic can review a mole you are worried about and arrange onward specialist referral where needed. Contact us at +353 85 102 4218 to book a GP appointment in Dublin.