Moles / Pigmented Lesions
● Symptoms
• Small black to brown spots or raised lesions on the skin.
• Vary in size, shape, and color — may be present from birth or develop later in life.
• Most are benign, but some require differentiation from skin cancer (e.g., malignant melanoma).
● Diagnosis
• Most cases can be diagnosed by visual inspection.
• A dermoscope (magnifying skin scope) is used for detailed examination to rule out malignancy.
• If the mole becomes irregular in shape, enlarges rapidly, darkens or becomes uneven in color, or bleeds, evaluation for skin cancer is necessary.
● Treatment
• Observation
– If benign and not medically concerning, no treatment is required.
• Surgical Excision
– If deemed medically necessary, the mole is removed under local anesthesia, followed by pathological examination.
• Laser Treatment (Cosmetic / Self-Paid)
– For aesthetic removal, CO₂ laser or other laser options may be used.
– Leaves minimal scarring, but recurrence is possible, so prior consultation with a physician is recommended.