Volgograd residents learned what changes in moles in children require a visit to an oncologist
Many children have moles, and in themselves they should not cause alarm. However, if education grows rapidly, darkens or changes shape, it is important not to delay the consultation of a specialist. On the portal "Explain.rf" told what features of child moles should be considered by parents.
A mole is a cluster of cells that produce melanin, a natural pigment on which the color of the skin, hair and eyes depends. A child can have up to 40 such formations. Some are visible at birth, others occur during life.
To notice changes in time, parents should periodically examine the skin of the child. Pay attention to moles with uneven edges, asymmetrical shape and heterogeneous color. Other warning signs include bleeding, cracks, sores, a diameter of more than 6 mm, and a rapid increase in size or color change.
Particular attention should be paid to large congenital pigment spots larger than 1.5 cm. Some of them are associated with an increased risk of malignant neoplasms. Another reason to consult a doctor is multiple spots of the shade “coffee with milk”. They can occur in neurofibromatosis, a hereditary disease that is accompanied by the formation of tumors.
Do not postpone the consultation, if the new mole is noticeably faster than others increases in size, the former has become larger or darker, the child accidentally damaged it. Testing is also recommended if close relatives have had melanoma or skin cancer. Another factor to discuss with your doctor is more than 50 moles on your baby’s body.
At the reception, the specialist will examine the skin, if necessary, use a dermatoscope - a device that helps to study the features of the mole. This examination is painless and usually takes 5-10 minutes. If the formation is suspicious, the doctor may order a biopsy, that is, examination of a tissue sample.
To monitor the condition of the skin, experts recommend examining moles every 3-6 months, protecting the child from the sun with SPF 50+ and annually being examined by a dermatologist or oncologist.
The child also needs to explain why you can not pick, comb and peel moles. If the formation is damaged, inflammation or suppuration may occur, and it will be more difficult for the doctor to assess its condition. If a child accidentally injured a mole, it is better to show it to a specialist.
“If you notice any changes, do not delay your visit to the oncologist. And do not forget to protect the skin from the sun - this is the best prevention of skin cancer, - says the oncologist of the Roshal Children's Center Irina Serkov.
