Mole check

A mole check is a detailed skin examination carried out by a dermatologist to assess existing moles, identify any new or unusual lesions and detect early signs of skin cancer. It is suitable for anyone worried about a particular mole, people with many moles, and those with a personal or family history of melanoma.

Who might benefit from a mole check?

A specialist mole check is particularly helpful if you:

  • Have noticed a new or changing mole
  • Have many moles, some of which look different from the others
  • Have fair skin, a history of sunburn or use of sunbeds
  • Have a personal or family history of melanoma or other skin cancers
  • Work outdoors or have had high lifetime sun exposure

A mole check can provide reassurance when lesions are benign and enables early treatment if a worrying lesion is identified.

What happens during a mole check?

At your appointment the dermatologist will:

  • Take a history of your skin concerns and any changes you have noticed
  • Review your risk factors, including sun exposure and family history
  • Examine your skin systematically from head to toe
  • Assess specific moles in detail, often using a dermatoscopic examination

You may be asked to point out any moles that worry you. It can be helpful to remove nail varnish and avoid heavy make up so that all relevant areas of skin can be examined.

After the assessment

Following your mole check, your dermatologist will explain the findings and discuss any next steps. These may include:

  • Reassurance that moles are benign with advice on self monitoring
  • Photographic monitoring of particular moles in selected cases
  • Recommendation for surgical removal of any suspicious lesions
  • Advice on sun protection and reducing your future risk of skin cancer

If a mole needs to be removed, this is usually done under local anaesthetic as a minor surgical procedure. The specimen is then examined under the microscope to provide a clear diagnosis.

Preparing for your appointment

Before your mole check you may find it useful to:

  • Make a note of any moles you are particularly worried about
  • Ask a partner or friend to help you look at difficult to see areas such as the back
  • Bring details of previous skin biopsies or dermatology treatments if you have them

Regular mole checks are often advised for people at higher risk, alongside good sun protection and prompt review of any new symptoms between appointments.

To arrange a specialist mole check, please contact Birmingham Skin Clinic or ask your GP for a private referral.