A Mole That Lasted More Than 10 Years Turned Out to Be Cancer! Watch for These Types of Moles
- Elva Chen
- May 24
- 3 min read
Mr. Zhao, 38, had a small black mole on his face for over a decade. It started as tiny as a grain of rice. However, in the past year, it grew to the size of a fingernail. Wishing to remove it for cosmetic reasons, he visited the Plastic Surgery Department at Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine.
After examination, Dr. Zhu Quanchao suspected the mole was basal cell carcinoma. Surgery confirmed the diagnosis. Because the excision defect was large, direct closure was impossible. Therefore, surgeons used a local flap transplant to repair the area. One month later, Mr. Zhao’s scar was barely noticeable, and he was satisfied with the result.
Warning Signs of Cancerous Moles (ABCDE Rule)
Asymmetry: Benign moles are mostly symmetrical; irregular shapes are suspicious.
Border: Blurred, jagged, or uneven edges.
Color: Uneven mixing of black, brown, blue, white, or other colors.
Diameter: Larger than 6mm, or growing rapidly in a short time.
Evolution: Changing quickly—itching, ulceration, oozing, crusting, or swelling.
Other Red Flags
Itching, pain, or numbness around the mole.
Rough surface, scaling, bleeding, or non-healing wounds.
Redness, inflammation, or “satellite” small moles around it.
Pigment spreading into surrounding skin.
Common Questions Answered
Can long-standing or congenital moles become cancerous?
Yes. Large congenital moles (over 20cm) carry a higher risk. Chronic skin lesions increase risk over time.
How to prevent malignant changes?
Sun protection is key. Avoid picking, scratching, or frequent friction.
Is it hereditary?
Those with a family history of melanoma or skin cancer need regular skin checks.
Can I remove moles with home remedies or by picking?
No! Unprofessional removal can stimulate malignancy and cause infection. Always see a doctor.
Is skin cancer life-threatening?
Most types, like basal cell carcinoma, are mild and curable with early removal. Melanoma is highly malignant and can be fatal if delayed.
Understanding Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer. It arises from the basal cells in the skin's outer layer. While it rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it can cause significant local damage if not treated.
Risk Factors for Basal Cell Carcinoma
Several factors can increase your risk of developing BCC:
Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds significantly raises the risk.
Skin Type: Fair-skinned individuals are at a higher risk.
Age: The risk increases with age, particularly for those over 50.
Family History: A family history of skin cancer can increase your likelihood of developing BCC.
Weakened Immune System: Individuals with compromised immune systems are more susceptible.
Treatment Options
If diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, several treatment options are available:
Surgery: The most common treatment, where the cancerous tissue is excised.
Mohs Surgery: A specialized surgical technique that removes cancerous skin layer by layer.
Topical Medications: Creams or ointments may be effective for superficial BCCs.
Radiation Therapy: Used for patients who cannot undergo surgery.
Cryotherapy: Freezing the cancer cells with liquid nitrogen.
Prevention Strategies
Preventing basal cell carcinoma involves a combination of lifestyle changes and protective measures:
Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
Wear Protective Clothing: Long sleeves and wide-brimmed hats can shield your skin from UV rays.
Seek Shade: Avoid direct sunlight during peak hours, typically from 10 AM to 4 PM.
Regular Skin Checks: Conduct self-examinations and schedule regular dermatology visits.
Conclusion
Being aware of the signs of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, is crucial. Early detection can lead to successful treatment and a better outcome. If you notice any changes in your skin, consult a healthcare professional promptly. Remember, taking preventive measures can significantly reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.
For more information on skin health and treatment options, visit MedTourChina.
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