Borderline moles. How to prevent the degeneration of a borderline pigmented nevus into a malignant tumor? Let's decipher its essence

On the skin

One of the skin pathologies includes border nevus, which is a benign formation on the skin caused by the process of migration of melanoblasts into the epidermis from the neuroectodermal tube, which occurs during the embryonic period of development of the human body.

This pathology is subject to serious study by medical science, since its presence often leads to the occurrence of a much more serious pathology of the skin - melanoma.

Characteristics of borderline nevus and photos will allow you to understand how serious the disease is.

There are several varieties, and one of them is the border nevus, which is a monotonous spot that can take on different colors: from yellow-brown to black.

Such a spot is no more than one and a half centimeters in size and is finally formed, as a rule, in the child’s infancy. Such a borderline pigment is formed at the junction of the dermis and epidermis, where this occurs malignancy, having a smooth and dry surface with active interaction of pigment cells.

There are situations when the border formation is a spot that has irregular wavy edges, but at the same time its characteristic feature There is always a lack of hair on the outer surface, which is a distinctive diagnostic sign for this skin pathology.

Foci of spread of border nevus

A borderline pigmented nevus does not occur in a strictly defined location, and therefore can spread to different parts of the human body, due to which the area of ​​distribution of a borderline nevus covers both the skin of the torso and the skin of the face and neck.

Also, this type of formation can occur on the skin surface of the genitals, palms and soles of the feet, and it is in these places that the formation of a borderline neoplasm poses the greatest threat to the body.

If it occurs in these areas of the body, the only best option is to get rid of such a disease through surgery. And sometimes such a procedure has to be done already in adolescence child, since there are cases when a borderline nevus forms only by this time.

Treatment of borderline nevus formation

For borderline pigmented nevus, there is a synonymous name - borderline noncellular nevus - however, regardless of its name, this malignant formation requires strictly defined methods of treatment, which consist in the vast majority of surgical operations to remove this disease.

Surgical removal involves excision of the nevus itself, as well as a small area of ​​skin (up to 5 mm) around it, which allows you to completely protect the body from such skin pathology.

If you follow the rules of aesthetic surgery in this case, combined with the use of the latest suture materials, you can achieve the absence of noticeable scars after surgery; and sometimes surgical intervention turns out to be completely unnecessary, since the removal of minor nevus formations can be done with just cosmetic manipulations or serum.

A border nevus is a small nodule located on the body, gray to black in color. This is one of those few neoplasms that can be localized anywhere. It is often single.

A borderline pigmented nevus consists of a large number of cells that contain large amounts of melanin. At a certain time, it did not come out, but stopped between the dermis and epidermis.

The concept of border nevus

These methods allow you to separate borderline pigmented nevus from:

• freckles,
• birthmarks,

Treatment of borderline pigmented nevus

Those who have been diagnosed with such a disease should be regularly monitored by a dermatologist. As long as the tumor is safe, it is not removed.

Any trauma may lead to the doctor suggesting removal of such a birthmark, since it is classified as melanoma-hazardous.

Often the indication is the localization of the nevus on the palms and soles, that is, in places where the risk of disrupting the structure of the mole increases.

Unlike many other nevi, this type is rarely treated with electrocoagulation and nitrogen, since such methods can cause tissue injury. And this will lead to the development of cancer.

Therefore it is often suggested to remove using:

• scalpel,
• radio waves,
• laser

The latter method is used only if the neoplasm is guaranteed to be benign and does not require histology.

A radiosurgical knife is effective only when the formation does not exceed 0.5 cm. If signs of malignant transformation are detected, the patient is immediately sent for removal using a surgical method.

In conclusion, we note: borderline nevus most often manifests itself between the ages of 20 and 50 years. Due to the fact that it is considered prone to malignancy, therefore, if it is detected, you should immediately consult a doctor. It will also be required if a person notices a modification of the formation, its rapid growth or a violation of its integrity.

After exposure, no traces of the procedure remain, but sometimes repetitions of the development of the disease are possible, which appear over a short period.

You need to know that if porosity appears, pain, scales come off, or lymphatic fluid is released, consultation and treatment are mandatory.

This video will tell you about the signs of degeneration and removal of moles:

A border nevus is a flat mole consisting of melanocytes - cells containing the pigment melanin, which does not come out, but remains between the epidermis and dermis. Birthmarks of this type can be primary or acquired. Over time, they can develop into mixed or dermal moles. The most dangerous is considered to be a proliferating nevus, against which melanoma often develops. Both the appearance of new moles and the disappearance of old ones should not go unnoticed. For any changes in the condition of the spots, you should contact an oncologist. Despite the fact that borderline pigmented nevus is a benign neoplasm, it is included in the group of melanoma-hazardous ones, that is, there is a risk of its degeneration into a malignant tumor.

Melanocytes, the cells from which a borderline nevus is formed, begin to mature during fetal development. A mole is formed from a nerve fiber and moves into the skin. Each cell has a channel through which the pigment is released out. Some melanocytes are found in the mucous membranes, responsible for eye color, while others are found in the layers of the skin, giving it a particular shade. There are pigment cells that do not have channels for removing substances to the outside. Melanin does not enter the epidermis, but begins to accumulate in a limited area, forming dark spots.

Depending on which layer of the skin contains the altered melanocytes, all moles are divided into 3 types: borderline nevus - division of pigment cells occurs at the border of the middle and upper layers of the skin, the basal layer is not affected by the neoplasm. Mixed moles penetrate into the deep layers of the epidermis. Intradermal spots form deep in the dermis. The deeper the melanocytes are located, the more the mole will protrude above the surface.

Main features of border formations

Since a borderline pigmented nevus is located shallowly under the skin, it does not protrude above the surface. It looks like a dark spot or papule of oval or round shape. Such neoplasms do not have a specific location; they can appear on the face, limbs, genitals, soles and palms. Moles located on the body can turn into intradermal ones. Borderline pigmented nevus, located on areas of the skin devoid of sebaceous glands, remains unchanged throughout a person’s life. Experts believe that birthmarks on the palms and soles can only be borderline.

Often several moles form on the skin, which change their appearance over time. Puberty, pregnancy, and entering menopause contribute to this. New growths have a flat, smooth surface. The size varies from a few mm to 1 cm. If the spot has a diameter of more than 5 cm, we are talking about a phenomenon such as dysplastic syndrome.
Borderline nevi have such a characteristic feature as the absence of hair on the surface. These moles do not even have vellus hair. The color can vary from flesh to dark brown. The shade is determined by the amount of melanin contained in the pigment cells. Since little of this substance is produced in cells that do not have a special process, most often moles have light color. Cockade spots are a type of border spots; they differ from ordinary ones by the presence of a dark rim along the contour. Because of this, such moles resemble a ring in appearance.
Changes in the color and size of the tumor, the appearance of erosions and weeping ulcers, redness of surrounding tissues or blurred outlines may indicate malignant degeneration. In this case, you should immediately consult a doctor. You need to be able to distinguish a borderline pigmented nevus from other forms of hyperpigmentation, especially chloasma, which looks like a large mole. This neoplasm is often confused with hemangioma, which has a less dense structure. Senile keratoma has a rough surface covered with a thick layer of sebum.

However, the most important thing is to notice in time the transformation of a borderline mole into melanoma. This tumor develops at the site of a flat spot without any characteristic signs. A mild dysplastic syndrome is observed - expansion of the boundaries of the spot, the appearance of growths on its surface, redness of the surrounding skin. Mechanical damage to the mole is considered to be a factor provoking malignant degeneration. Particular attention should be paid to neoplasms located on the palms, soles, and near the nails. They are almost always borderline in nature and are easily injured. A pigmented flat nevus of this location must be removed as soon as possible.

Identification and treatment of dangerous moles

Diagnosis begins with an external examination and dermatoscopy. Histology is not performed before the spot is removed, since a biopsy can lead to damage and further malignant degeneration. Microscopic examination reveals that the melanocytes that make up the neoplasm have a kidney-shaped nucleus and an atypical shape. Less commonly, a dangerous nevus consists of cells randomly scattered inside the epidermis. People with dangerous moles need to visit a dermatologist regularly. Since growths are benign, emergency surgery is not required in all cases.

It should be remembered that borderline moles are a background for the development of melanoma, therefore the best way Prevention of skin cancer is their timely removal. The indication for surgery is constant mechanical impact on the nevus, especially if it is in the area armpits, groin, neck or palms. Removal can be carried out using the classical surgical method, laser or radio wave exposure. Cryodestruction and electrocoagulation of a borderline nevus is not recommended, as this contributes to injury to surrounding tissues. There have been cases of melanoma developing at the site of a removed benign neoplasm.

After laser destruction, no traces remain on the skin. The recovery period is practically absent. However, this method can only be used if histological analysis is not required. Excision of pigment spots with a radiosurgical knife is prescribed for small sizes. Healing of postoperative injury occurs without suturing. If signs of malignant degeneration appear, removal is performed using the classical surgical method. The tissues are sent for histological examination.
Borderline neoplasms are dangerous due to their ability to degenerate into skin cancer, so a person who has them should carefully monitor their health. If the slightest changes appear, you must immediately contact an oncologist. Particular attention should be paid to protecting the skin from ultraviolet rays.

» Borderline nevus photo

What is a borderline pigmented nevus and how to get rid of it

A border nevus is a pigmented mole located in the lower layer of the epidermis at the border with the dermis; most often this neoplasm is congenital, but sometimes it can be acquired at any age. Experts classify this type of benign nevi as melanoma-dangerous, that is, those that can transform into malignant melanoma; the probability of such an outcome can reach 10%. However, most borderline moles do not threaten a person’s health and life; they remain unchanged throughout his life.

How do border nevi appear?

Any mole is a cluster of melanocytes - cells that produce the coloring pigment melanin, the concentration of which determines the color of the skin, hair, eyes and moles themselves. The formation of these cells begins in the prenatal period, after which they are evenly distributed throughout the body. Each melanocyte has a process with which it transfers the pigment melanin to the cell of the skin, hair or mucous membranes, but some cells do not have this process. Such melanocytes accumulate in some areas of the body, subsequently forming moles; this phenomenon is associated with a congenital skin defect.

In the case of borderline (intraepidermal) nevus, melanocytes did not reach the surface of the skin, but stopped at the border between the epidermis and dermis. Such a mole can be localized on any part of the body, and most often it is located alone, and not in a group. Typically a flat patch of brown, gray or black color, the surface is usually smooth and dry, without any irregularities. The average size reaches 4-5 mm, sometimes a nevus can grow up to 1 cm in diameter, larger intraepidermal moles are rare.

A distinctive feature of a borderline nevus is the absence of any hair on its surface.

Borderline nevi are mostly identical, but have one variety - a cockade mole. It is characterized by the fact that its pigmentation can change over time, acquiring a darker shade. It is often observed along the periphery of the pigment spot, resulting in the appearance of rings.

Distinctive features

Pigment spots of different origins can form on the human body, but it is important to distinguish them from each other in order to provide proper care and select the appropriate treatment if necessary. Borderline nevus must be distinguished from the following pigmented neoplasms:

1. Freckles. Dark pigment spots on the face and some parts of the body can merge into larger formations, as a result of which they will resemble an intraepidermal mole.
2. Cavernous hemangiomas. These benign neoplasms are formed from dilated blood vessels and interconnected cavities filled with blood. These pigment spots differ from borderline nevi in ​​their softer texture.
3. Senile (seborrheic) keratomas. Such pigment spots form on the human body as a result of compaction of the stratum corneum of the epidermis with the onset of old age. They differ from intraepidermal moles by their rough surface.

For the patient himself, it is most important to be able to distinguish a borderline pigmented nevus from melanoma located on early stage development. Melanoma is a malignant tumor that is formed as a result of the pathological uncontrolled proliferation of melanocytes, replacing healthy cells. This disease is not cancer, but it is no less dangerous for humans. If timely assistance is not provided, melanoma will progress, melanocytes will eventually enter the blood and spread to vital organs, after which metastases will begin to form. At this stage, the probability of death reaches 90%, so it is important to diagnose the pathology in the early stages of its occurrence.

Melanoma can form from a benign mole under the influence of several factors. Firstly, it should be noted harmful effects ultraviolet rays, the radiation of which the body receives while tanning under the sun or in a solarium. Too frequent aggressive exposure to ultraviolet radiation is likely to cause various skin diseases, including the appearance of new moles and the formation of melanoma from old ones. Secondly, the process of malignancy can be affected hormonal changes in the body, which in most cases are observed during puberty and during pregnancy in women. Thirdly, any frequent physical and chemical damage can negatively affect the mole, which is much more vulnerable than normal healthy skin.

To distinguish a borderline nevus from melanoma, one should take into account the signs that appear during its development:

1. Asymmetry of the neoplasm. If you draw an imaginary line through the middle of a mole, its two halves must be at least approximately equal in size and shape, otherwise a pathological process can be suspected.
2. Uneven edges. A mole degenerating into melanoma acquires blurred, uneven boundaries, and this process occurs abruptly for no apparent reason.
3. Color change. Ideally, most varieties of moles do not change their color throughout a person’s life. Those nevi in ​​which this is still observed, for example, cockade ones, change shade gradually. If it changes dramatically, this is another reason to see a doctor.
4. Increase in size. Some types of benign neoplasms grow along with their owner from the very moment of their appearance, but this happens evenly and slowly. Rapid growth may indicate the beginning of the transformation of the spot into melanoma.
5. Change external signs. Any sudden changes that occur for no apparent reason may give rise to a visit to the clinic. This may include the appearance of cracks on the surface of the nevus, changes in its structure, the appearance of hair that was not there before, compaction, inflammation, bleeding, etc.

Diagnosis of nevus

When you contact your doctor, you will have an initial consultation, during which a dermatologist or oncologist will conduct a visual examination and ask you about the time of appearance of the borderline nevus and the details of its development. To make an accurate diagnosis, additional hardware procedures may be required - dermatoscopy and siascopy.

Dermatoscopy is performed using a special device that resembles a microscope. The doctor examines the pigmented neoplasm under multiple magnification, which makes it possible to determine its location, structure and possible signs of pathological transformations. If necessary, a dermatoscope can take photographs of the pigment spot if systematic monitoring is required.

Siascopy is performed using a special scanner, which, without damaging the skin, allows you to examine the structure of the nevus and the composition of its cells. Like dermatoscopy, this study is absolutely safe and painless, it can be performed even on children and pregnant women.

Treatment options

Borderline pigmented nevus usually does not cause trouble to its owner, since it is not damaged by clothing or household items. However, in some cases it may represent a cosmetic defect, so the patient will want to have it removed. Also, one should not exclude the possibility of malignancy, that is, the degeneration of the neoplasm into melanoma; in this case, an removal procedure is also prescribed.

Traditional surgical excision is used if melanoma is suspected, since other procedures do not guarantee the absence of relapses and complications after removal of a malignant tumor. After applying general anesthesia, the mole is excised along with a small area of ​​adjacent skin, then the material is sent for histological analysis. Rehabilitation after such an operation lasts several weeks, during which the patient must follow the rules prescribed by the doctor. Bleeding may occur during and after the procedure, and in most cases, scars will form on the skin.

If an intraepidermal mole does not pose a threat to human life and health, laser or radio wave therapy can be used. In the first case, the tumor is evaporated layer by layer under the influence of a laser beam, and in the second - with the help of high-frequency radio waves. Cryodestruction and electrocoagulation are not used to remove a borderline mole, since there is a risk of injury to healthy skin.

Types of moles on the human body

Let's look at the types of moles and their meaning in order to understand possible risks formations on your body or their significance in your own destiny.

Markings on the human body can differ not only in size and color, but also in the nature of their occurrence, structure and danger to the health of their carrier.

Therefore, in modern medicine they consider different kinds moles, which are classified according to many parameters.

Variety of nevi

New growths on the skin can appear due to various reasons: pathological development of skin cells even before the birth of a child, fetal hypoxia, exposure to ultraviolet radiation, hereditary factors, individual characteristics of the skin, etc.

Therefore, it is possible to determine the variety of nevi based on the nature of their origin.

Let's look at different types of moles and photos describing the features of the neoplasm.

Vascular

Appear as a result of pathological transformation of blood vessels.

The coloring, size and convexity of such nevi depend on which particular vessel is deformed:

• if a capillary vessel begins to grow, but a flat red spot becomes noticeable on the surface of the skin;
• when pathological changes begin to occur in the veins and arteries, the vascular neoplasm will be convex, clearly visible and have a red or red-blue color.

Vascular moles can have different manifestations, so there are two types: hemangioma and vascular malformation.

Hemangiomas

This formation on the skin is also called a strawberry spot because of its deep red color.

• They appear on the skin of babies in the first month of life: first, light plaques are visible, then they gradually turn red and take on the appearance of swelling of the skin.
• Over time, its edges acquire clear boundaries, and the nevus itself becomes bright red.
• In this form, the nevus can be localized on the skin until the child is seven years old.

Acquired hemangiomas do not go away on their own and can remain for life.

They have 4 varieties based on the nature of their appearance:

• arterial;
• venous;
• arteriovenous;
• capillary.

The most common locations for such tumors are the neck and face.

Hemangiomas do not need to be removed if they do not cause aesthetic discomfort, because such nevi never degenerate into skin cancer.

Vascular malformation

It is another type of vascular mole, it is of congenital origin and appears as a result of deformation of blood vessels.

Vascular malformation has two types:

1. Port wine stains can appear on children's torso, arms and face. From birth, the neoplasms are light pink in color, but soon they become bright or crimson red. When the baby is crying or has a fever heat, due to the dilation of blood vessels, the color of the nevus becomes more intense. Port naevi remain for life;
2. a stork bite appears on the body of a newborn as a result of great pressure on the fetal skull by the mother’s pelvic bones in the last weeks before birth. The spots are reddish or deep Orange color, irregular shape and unclear boundaries. A stork bite does not require treatment and disappears on its own before the child is one year old.

Dark spots

Pigmented moles appear as a result of an excess of the coloring pigment – ​​melanin – in the skin cells.

• The amount of this substance directly determines the color of the neoplasm: from light beige and gray to brown and almost black.
• Nevi can have hairs and a different surface - smooth or rough, like warts.

They have 3 varieties:

Lentigo

This is the most common formation, which is localized on the skin as a result of increased accumulation of melanin in the tissues.

• Depending on its quantity, the nevus can be from light brown to brown.
• Sometimes such spots resemble freckles in appearance, but are darker in color.
• Lentigines on the skin can appear in old age as a result of natural aging of the skin.

Mongolian spots

This formation looks like an accumulation of several bluish or brownish spots of irregular shape, and can form as a continuous large spot.

Location: lumbosacral area.

Mongolian spots do not require treatment and go away on their own before adolescence.

Coffee stains

Such nevi have a flat shape and the color of coffee with milk.

If no more than two such formations are found on the body, then there is no danger to health.

When there are more than two coffee spots, the patient is referred for examination to a neurologist, as this may be a manifestation of neurofibromatosis, a disease characterized by the appearance of a tumor from the cells of nerve endings.

White

If pigmented non-vascular neoplasms are a consequence of increased accumulation of melanin in skin cells, then white moles appear as a consequence of reduced production of melanocytes.

Such a growth on the skin can be localized on any part of the body, have different shape and surface structure.

• For the most part, white tumors do not pose a threat to the health of their carrier and are a feature of the structure or transformation of the skin.
• But sometimes such moles are considered symptoms of a malfunction of certain body systems, so they need to be regularly shown to specialists.

Video: “Removing moles. Quick and painless"

Types of moles on the body

Moles are benign growths that arise as a result of changes in skin cells due to a number of factors.

They can have different germination depths, shapes, colors, and sizes.

Places of formation

Nevi occur both on the surface of the skin and on the mucous membranes.

They can originate at different depths of the skin layer, so moles can be divided into:

• epidermal, the cells of which originate in the upper layer of the skin. They are either flat or slightly raised above the skin. Color – from beige to black. Locations: groin, soles and palms;
• intradermal, which arise deep in the dermis. They are always convex, their surface can be either absolutely smooth or rough. They are identical in color to the skin, but more often they are dark brown, sometimes black. Hair can grow from such nevi, which is a good sign. After all, cancer cells destroy hair follicles, which is why there are no hairs on melanomas;
• borderline - such moles are formed from melanocytes that linger between the dermis and epidermis of the skin. They are flat, can have either an irregular shape or be localized in the form of circles or ovals. During hormonal surges or under exposure to the sun, they can enlarge and become more convex. The surface is always smooth and without hair (even fluff).

Appearance

According to external characteristics, all nevi can be grouped as follows:

• flat (melanocytic) neoplasms that do not rise above the skin and have a smooth, dry surface. They are considered the most common type of moles, which, moreover, do not pose a danger to humans;
• Convex (new cell) moles always have a convex shape, dark color, rough or smooth surface. Both hard hairs and vellus hairs can grow on them;
• warty (organoid) skin lesions can range from dark blue to black. The structure is similar to warts - convex nevi on a stalk. You need to pay attention to them Special attention, since raised moles are easy to tear off.

Size

Depending on the size of the tumor, it can be:

• small: diameter up to 15 mm;
• medium: diameter up to 100 mm;
• large: diameter more than 100 mm;
• giant: nevi that cover large areas of the skin of the face, lower leg or other parts of the body.

Giant moles require regular examination, since in more than half of all cases they degenerate into skin cancer.

What does a mole on the left chin mean? Find out here.

Congenital and acquired

Congenital nevi appear on the surface of the skin immediately after the birth of a child or in the first weeks of life and can be inherited.

They can have both very small (up to 2 mm) and large sizes.

If congenital nevi up to 20 mm in size pose virtually no threat to human health, then large formations should be regularly shown to an oncodermatologist, and their dynamics should be independently monitored.

Acquired moles appear on the skin as a result of exposure to solar radiation, during puberty or in pregnant women, as a result of skin damage, etc.

They pose a great danger to their wearer and require constant monitoring by a specialist and independent inspection.

You need to be especially careful with convex formations.

Video: “Dangerous moles! Is it worth removing and how to recognize melanoma in time?”

Benign and malignant

Mostly, neoplasms on the skin are benign, that is, they are not dangerous to human health.

Over time, they may change slightly in size and color; flat ones may bulge a little, but such transformations are long-term in nature, that is, they did not occur rapidly.

But sometimes new malignant formations may appear or old nevi that have been exposed to external irritation (sun, injury, etc.) may degenerate.

They provoke skin cancer, which is capable of metastasis.

Therefore, if a nevus is suspected of malignancy, it should be removed immediately.

What does a mole on the left side of the neck mean in women? Find out here.

Is it possible to remove moles from a child? Read here.

Melanoma-hazardous

Some skin tumors have a high risk of degenerating into melanoma.

Therefore, such moles were combined into a separate group - melanoma-dangerous nevi.

These include:

1. blue nevus - formation of blue or of blue color, may protrude above the surface of the skin. Hair on such a mole never grows. The size does not exceed 5 mm. Locations: buttocks, face and limbs;
2. Dubreuil melanosis is a pre-melanoma stage of skin formation. Represents a single age spot irregular in shape and light brown in color. Over time, the color becomes darker and the size gradually increases. At the initial stage, the diameter does not exceed 3 cm;
3. Nevus of Ota is a large bluish pigmented spot that can appear on a person's face. The formation usually has light layers of skin and a heterogeneous structure;
4. Setton's nevus - is represented by a red or brown nodule elevated above the skin, the size of such a formation is up to 5 mm, oval in shape. A distinctive sign of such a nevus is considered to be a depigmented ring that surrounds the formation on all sides and has a larger diameter than the mole itself;
5. pigment border formation is a flat, dark-colored nevus with a smooth surface on which hair never grows. The size of such moles is no more than 1 cm.
6. a giant pigmented neoplasm is a large nevus, the surface of which is heterogeneous: cracked, bumpy or warty. Such a mole increases as the person grows;
7. papillomatous mole is a formation with irregular outlines and a heterogeneous surface. Size - up to 2 cm. The color can match the skin, or it can be dark brown or grey colour. It is most often localized on the scalp, and hairs also grow from it;
8. verrucous neoplasm is a variation of the previous type of nevus, but with a difference in the surface structure: it is more pigmented and lumpy. The nevus itself has many deep cracks.

Photos of melanoma-dangerous nevi

Signs of melanoma

To identify melanoma in the early stages, dermatology has developed a simple test called ACORD.

Let's decipher its essence:

• A– asymmetry of two equal halves, which are located on both sides of a visually drawn axis;
• TO– the edge of the mole has teeth or irregularities;
• ABOUT– the color of the formation is uneven, interspersed with a different color;
• R– the size of the nevus is constantly increasing;
• D– dynamics of formation: growth, color change, appearance of cracks, crusts, bleeding.

If at least one point from the above test can be applied to any mole on your body, then this is a reason for an urgent visit to an oncodermatologist.

Meaning

According to astrologers, each mole has its own meaning, influencing the fate of its bearer in a certain way.

Therefore, let’s look at what nevi mean on the human body and face:

• a nevus on the face means the beauty and attractiveness of its owner. May indicate success in creativity or business. The formation on the forehead will indicate the person’s hard work and the luck that accompanies him throughout his life. A nevus on the cheek is a sign of goodwill and prosperity in life;
• a tumor on the neck is a good sign, but only if it is located in the front;
• on the shoulders - a sign of wisdom and prudence. Such people show themselves to be good life partners;
• a mole on the left hand will tell you that a person is very hardworking. A nevus on the right is a sign of a successful career;
• a formation on the chest speaks of the self-confidence of its owner. For a woman, such a sign means that she will become a good mother;
• a nevus on the back is a sign of honesty and devotion, on the stomach - wealth;
• a mole on the legs is a sign of a lot of difficulties along the path of life.

Why are red moles on the body a signal of dangerous diseases? Find out here.

When do moles appear in newborns? Read on.

Sometimes moles on the body form special signs that have a unique meaning:

• in the form of a triangle - a sign of a happy life for its bearer. If nevi are grouped in the form of a triangle on the hand, then such a person will be very rich. If three moles are placed side by side on the face, this is a sign of success in creativity.
• a star-shaped arrangement speaks of a person’s exceptional talent.
• in the shape of a heart is a sign of great love in the life of its owner.
• nevi like constellations are a fateful sign and mean that a random event can change the course of your usual life.
• when moles are located in the form of the constellation Ursa Major, then a person’s life is constantly filled with interesting events.

By learning what this or that mark on your body means, you can discover new facets in yourself.

No matter how fateful the significance of a mole may be for you, if you suspect it has become malignant, you must definitely get rid of it.

Video: “The meaning of moles on the human body”

Malignant moles: how to detect and treat correctly

Birthmarks are congenital or acquired skin defects. They appear everywhere: on the body, fingers, face, etc. Moles are characterized by a variety of shapes, shades and sizes. They are often called nevi. Such neoplasms can be flat or convex, with a smooth or hairy surface.

They can be detected at birth or occur during life. The presence of an excessive number of nevi indicates the negative influence of ultraviolet radiation or a hereditary tendency to form moles.

The nevi themselves are safe for the body, but in the presence of certain negative factors they can become malignant or form into malignant neoplasms, which subsequently lead to skin cancer. Such nevi are called melanoma-dangerous.

Dangerous species

Oncologists identify 5 dangerous types of moles:

1. Border The nevus looks like a spot with the same color over the entire surface, which can reach an almost black tint. Such moles do not react to the influence of UV rays and do not change color, number or parameters;
2. Blue A nevus is a rather dense neoplasm with a smooth, hairless covering. Such a mole is noticeably higher than the skin, does not exceed 2 cm in diameter, prefers to be located in the area of ​​​​the limbs, face and buttocks;
3. Gigantic a mole is considered the most dangerous formation, since in half of the cases it degenerates. Such a nevus has a heterogeneous, loose surface and increases in size every year;
4. Nevus Ota– is a large dark brown or blue-gray mole. Such education requires mandatory treatment;
5. Dubreuil's melanosis– is considered a precancerous formation with an uneven contour. When detected, such a formation requires removal, since in most cases it undergoes malignancy.

An experienced doctor will be able to determine the danger of a nevus by its appearance.

The statistics are that most patients see an oncologist too late, when the process of malignancy has already been completed and a harmless nevus has become a cancerous tumor. The reason for this pattern is carelessness towards moles and ignorance of the main symptoms of degeneration.

Reasons for the degeneration of a mole into a malignant one

Nevi are prone to degeneration in the presence of irritating factors. To such changes Excessive ultraviolet radiation may cause, therefore it is extremely important to avoid long-term exposure to the open sun, especially between 11 and 16 hours.

This statement is confirmed by the fact that in sunny countries, where residents are exposed to ultraviolet radiation all year round, melanoma is diagnosed much more often than in northern regions.

Recent studies also prove the ultraviolet cause of malignancy. With every sunburn in childhood, the risk of developing a malignant nevus in adulthood increases. Various injuries to moles are no less dangerous; if they occur, it is recommended to consult a specialist.

The genetic factor plays an important role in the malignancy of nevi. If a person at the genetic level does not have the ability to adapt to an aggressive environment, then he is considered to be at risk for malignancy of moles.

Main features

If you are the happy owner of moles, then make it a rule to periodically examine them in order to promptly identify possible degeneration. To make it easier to remember, dermatologists have come up with the following diagnostic rule, “acord,” which is used to identify the symptoms of a mole degenerating into a malignant one:

• A – asymmetry. Benign nevi are distinguished by a symmetrical structure (except for congenital ones), and if a mole begins to acquire an asymmetrical shape, this can serve as a signal of the beginning of degeneration;
• K – contours. If the edges of the nevus have become uneven, blurred, indistinct, then such a fact should be a cause for alarm;
• O – shade. If the color of the mole has acquired any inclusions, dots or stripes, this may indicate the development of degeneration;
• R – dimensions. A nevus can change its size only during adolescence in adolescents, when puberty occurs. Other cases of sudden growth of a mole require specialist intervention;
• D – dynamics of pathological changes. The sudden appearance of cracks, crusts, and bleeding is evidence of malignancy of the mole.

In the photo you can compare what malignant and benign moles look like

In addition to the above, characteristic signs of a malignant mole are:

• Unreasonable peeling, changes in surface texture;
• Induration of the nevus against the background of its rapid growth;
• It is dangerous if the mole begins to itch, there is a burning or tingling sensation;
• The sudden appearance of spots around the nevus, similar to a rash of allergic origin.

If at least one sign occurs, then this already requires medical consultation and makes you think about the malignancy of the nevus. Therefore, you should not leave any changes to the mole to chance, because violating the integrity of the surface layer of the nevus is dangerous due to blood poisoning with a very unfavorable outcome.

Diagnostics

Only a doctor can independently determine the malignant nature of a mole after a dermoscopic procedure. Such a study does not cause pain and takes about 3 minutes per nevus.

The procedure is carried out with a dermatoscope - a specialized device that provides diagnostic accuracy of about 95-97%.

What to do if the nevus turns out to be malignant

If the malignancy of the mole is confirmed by specialists and the diagnostic procedures performed, then the patient is usually sent for surgery, which involves surgical removal of the mole.

Indications for removal

Not all moles need to be removed. There is a list of indications for removing nevi:

1. If the mole has degenerated into a malignant formation (malignant);
2. Large size of the nevus or its unaesthetic appearance;
3. The presence of permanent injury of mechanical or chemical origin. If a mole is injured by clothing, causes discomfort and pain, or bleeds, it must be removed in order to prevent blood poisoning or malignancy.

Methods

Malignant moles are removed different ways. There are 5 main techniques most often used to remove nevi.

• Cryodestruction. This method involves eliminating the tumor by freezing it with liquid nitrogen or a mixture of carbonic acid. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and takes a few minutes. The disadvantage of this technique is the inability to control the degree of nitrogenous or acidic exposure.

After cryotherapy, it is impossible to obtain biomaterial for histological examination. If the nevus was large in size, then after freezing there is a possibility of scarring or cicatricial formation.

• Laser treatment. It involves removing a mole using laser burning. The method has many advantages. One of them is the simultaneous sealing of blood vessels, which makes it possible to successfully apply such treatment to moles that are characterized by bleeding. There is also a minus - the impossibility of performing histology.
• Radio wave therapy. This technique is acceptable for small nevi located on the surface of the skin. The procedure is carried out with a special device (Surgitron, etc.), after which a quickly healing wound is left. Radiotherapy does not damage the nevus tissue, which allows subsequent histological examination. After the procedure, there are no scars left, and the postoperative wound quickly disappears.
• Electrotherapy. Such therapy involves burning out the nevus with low-frequency electricity. The procedure is very traumatic, there is a high probability of postoperative scarring, so this technique is used quite rarely. But electrocoagulation also has its advantages - the possibility of histological examination.
• Surgical removal. A similar method is used to remove large moles or when melanoma has deeply grown in the tissue on which it is located. Also, a similar operation is applicable for flat nevi, tumors of a malignant nature and for malignant moles. Cancerous tumors are excised along with the surrounding skin.

If the patient wants to get rid of a nevus for aesthetic reasons, then it should be taken into account that a mole can be permanently eliminated only if it does not exceed 5 mm. If the nevus is large, a scar will remain after removal.

Survival prognosis

The survival rate is usually determined by the thickness of the malignant mole. This criterion is called the Breslow depth. The depth of penetration of the oncological process – the Clark level – is also taken into account when predicting.

If melanoma is less than 1 cm thick, the prognosis is favorable. If the thickness of the nevus exceeds 1 cm, then the prognosis is less favorable.

Prevention

Prevention of the degeneration of a benign mole into a malignant one has not been developed today, although there are several recommendations that can help prevent the process of malignancy:

• Be attentive to the condition of existing moles, and if there are changes, contact an oncologist in a timely manner;
• Avoid long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation (solarium, beach), use protection against UV rays;
• Avoid contact with chemicals.

You should not try to cut or tear off a mole yourself. This should only be done by a specialist and using the necessary equipment.

Video about how to recognize a malignant formation on the skin, diagnosis and treatment of the tumor:

What are moles: types and photos

Almost every person has moles. Some people have only a few of them, while some people can count dozens or even hundreds of such marks. Most moles are harmless formations. But among them there are specks that can cause a lot of trouble. What types of moles are distinguished and when do they require our close attention?

Morphological classification of moles

A mole in medical terminology is called a “nevus”. This is a cluster of cells - melanocytes, containing a special pigment - melanin. The color of the mole is determined by the concentration, quantity and depth of melanin in the nevus.

Moles are classified according to a number of parameters. They may vary in color, shape and size.

Color

The color range of spots is varied. It depends not only on the characteristics of the cells that form the mole, but also on the color type of the carrier’s skin. Available palette:

1. From light brown to almost black.
2. Pink - red - crimson.
3. Blue - violet - dirty blue.

Form

Flat and convex, round and oblong, nodular and “pedunculated”, smooth and rough - the dimorphism of spots is impressive! As a rule, even on the body of one person, moles of various shapes can “get along” quite peacefully.

Size

From 1 mm to extensive nevi covering a significant area. As a rule, size is not directly related to the risk of nevus degeneration into an oncogenic form.

Attention! Any change in the shape, color, size and structure of the nevus is a sufficient reason to contact a dermato-oncologist for timely diagnosis!

Moles that have:

• smooth edges;
• no more than 0.5 cm in diameter;
• evenly colored.

Even the subjective feeling that a mole is different from the rest, and even more so that it is itchy, growing and changing color, should alert you. According to some data, the 5-year survival rate after treatment of malignant tumors detected at an early stage reaches more than 90%.

Types of moles based on benignity

Morphological features of moles provide primary information about their structure and character. The full picture can only be revealed by histological examination. Thus, there are three conditional groups of skin neoplasms:

1. Benign neoplasms - nevi.
2. Precancerous or borderline - basilioma.
3. Malignant - melanoma, skin cancer.

Benign nevi

Widespread. We can say that upon closer examination they can be found in the majority. Such plaques have smooth and clear edges, they can be of different solid colors. They are capable of increasing in size, but this process occurs slowly and often goes unnoticed. Their growth is not associated with discomfort - it does not cause itching or inflammation.

Borderline neoplasms

These include potentially dangerous pigmented formations - atypical moles and basiliomas. When certain conditions are created (trauma, excess sun), they can turn into a malignant form. There is a simple formula - the abbreviation AKORD. With its help, you can try to independently determine the presence of an atypical mole.

A - asymmetry;

O - color;

P - size;

D - dynamics.

An asymmetrical mole with uneven edges of uneven color, changing its size and changing its appearance is atypical.

Malignant structures

Melanoma, or skin cancer, occurs less frequently. According to some reports, only one mole in a thousand is dangerous. However, in some countries, doctors began to remove all pigmented formations on the skin without waiting for their degeneration. In Russia, this method of combating melanoma is not practiced. And for that there is good reason- the removal operation itself can also cause malignant change.

Unfortunately, it is impossible to visually determine the degree of malignancy of a mole. And the line between them is so thin that in case of any suspicion it is better to consult a doctor. The presence of atypical spots requires careful observation and examination every three months.

Structural classification

Based on the structures involved in the body of the mole, dermatologists distinguish between pigmented, vascular and warty varieties.

Pigmented moles

Appearance - smooth or rough, may have hairs coming from inside. The color varies, but in all cases it is darker than that of freckles. The color of pigmented nevi is determined by a combination of black eumelanin and brown pheomelanin.

Pigmented nevi include two types of cells - epidermal and nerve cell sheaths, located in the upper layers of the skin.

Vascular moles

Nevi of this type lie deeper, localized in the basal layer of cells between the epidermis and dermis. They are more convex and include blood vessels in their structure. The color of such formations ranges from pink to bright red.

Warty moles

A collection of bubbles that are dirty gray or brown in color. The surface is granular, keratinized. The external resemblance to a wart determines the name. Mostly localized on the head, neck, and behind the ears.

More often, a warty nevus is found in the fair sex. Unfortunately, these moles do not give them any charm, since they are large in size, very noticeable in the photo and have an unpleasant appearance. From 2 to 10% of such formations can degenerate into cancer, and therefore require careful attention and observation by a dermatologist.

Medical classification

Nevi are diverse and changeable - the variety of their shapes, structures and degree of danger requires different approaches to classification. Let us describe the types of moles that are identified by practicing dermatologists when making a diagnosis.

Lentigo

Somewhat reminiscent of freckles. The main difference is more saturated color. In addition, under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, the number of such spots and the intensity of their color do not change. Border formations located in the basal layer between the epidermis and dermis.

Epidermal-dermal

They are non-convex nevi of small size up to 1 cm. Like lentigo, they are based in the border area. Color from flesh to black. Localized on the skin of the feet, palms and genital area.

Intradermal nevi

The melanocytes that form this type of nevus are located in the thickness of the dermis. The deeper the melanocytes lie, the more convex the nevus. IN in this case plaques necessarily protrude above the skin. Color - from beige to dark brown.

Complex nevi

Melanocytes of such a nevus are located in both the dermis and epidermis. These moles always protrude above the skin and are very dark in color.

Sutton's nevi

A characteristic feature of this type is the ability to spontaneously disappear and appear. They are easily distinguished from others by the presence of a ring of unpigmented skin around the nevus.

Dysplastic nevi

They have a number of characteristic features:

1. They first appear in people over 35 years of age.
2. Diameter - up to 12 mm.
3. They are located in areas hidden from sunlight (buttocks, chest, scalp).
4. Often these are numerous clusters.
5. Passed on by inheritance.
6. Paradoxically, these irregularly shaped plaques with blurred edges and uneven coloring, although they contain signs of cancer, extremely rarely turn into malignant forms.

Blue nevi

The color range of such nevi is varied - from gray-blue to blue and dark blue. A distinctive feature is color variations within the blue palette. These are towering formations with a smooth surface and a clear boundary. The size does not exceed 2 cm, hair does not grow in their area. Located on the face, limbs and buttocks.

Cellular blue nevus

Visually, this type of nevus is indistinguishable from a simple blue nevus. Histological examination shows that this type of mole is distinguished by its ability to rapidly divide melanocytes. This is an unfavorable sign indicating the possibility of developing melanoma.

Giant pigmented nevus

It is a flat spot, the color of which can be either brown or dark gray. It can reach impressive sizes, since it is a congenital formation that tends to grow with the child.

Nevi of early childhood

In addition to the giant pigmented nevus, there are other congenital pigmentation disorders. As a rule, these are vascular types of moles, namely hemangiomas, port-wine stains and pigmentation at the base of the skull. The latter goes away on its own within 1 - 1.5 years.

Hemangioma

Benign formations that developed as a result of abnormal formation of a blood vessel. They appear during the first week of life and look like a pink-red spot the size of a needle point. For some time they may increase slightly in size, but in most cases they turn pale and disappear by 3 years.

Wine stains

Another name for them is flaming nevi. They occur due to dilation of blood vessels on the face and scalp. With age, they do not disappear or fade, but grow with the child. If such a spot appears, it is better to immediately contact a dermatologist and begin treatment as early as possible in order to prevent it from growing and turning into a serious cosmetic defect.

Be attentive to yourself and your loved ones! Visit a dermatologist, study your moles - this will give you peace of mind and confidence in your health.

Dysplastic nevus is a harbinger of skin cancer, how to detect and treat it?

Dysplastic nevus is considered one of the precursors of skin cancer.

It is called differently:

• Clark's nevus
• atypical nevus,
• lentiginous melanocytic dysplasia.

Prevalence and localization

This spot occurs in 5% of the population; in the majority it is transmitted at the genetic level.

It consists of active but immature cells that continue to produce melanin. Therefore, the risk of transforming such a spot into melanoma increases. The latter appears in 28% of cases.

Clark's nevus appears during puberty or childhood. If one has formed, there is a high probability of further neoplasms appearing.

The first atypical spots often appear on closed areas of the body, in the scalp.

Causes

The main prerequisite for its appearance is genetic predisposition. The basis for this appears in intrauterine development when melanocytes accumulate in certain areas of the skin.

Whether the disease manifests itself or not depends on external factors, for example, excess sunlight.

Cases have been recorded where the appearance of moles occurs at a young age. The phenomenon is explained by the influence of hormone fluctuations on melanocytes. Sunbathing and artificial ultraviolet irradiation is a secondary factor in the appearance of formations.

Clinical characteristics

Dysplastic nevi differ from others in their appearance. Typically the edges are a smooth surface that is flush with the skin. There is a roughness in the center that rises above the skin.

The color ranges from dark beige to brown. The degree of saturation depends on the area where the nevus appeared.

This phenomenon is distinguished by other signs:

• plurality,
• uneven outlines,
• big sizes,
• black hair growth.

The photo shows Clark's multiple nevus (dysplastic or atypical)

During the study, the diagnosis is made in a situation where there is melanocyte dysplasia, there are changes in the epidermis and its thickening, and a reaction of the dermis in the form of lymphoplasmacytic infiltration is manifested.

There are three degrees of Clark's nevus:

1. chains of cells consisting of enlarged melanocytes are detected.
2. accumulations of melanin appear, which form round lesions similar to honeycombs.
3. There is an increase in signs of melanocyte atypia. Bridges appear between the foci. In some cases, it is difficult to differentiate between nevus and level 1 melanoma.

Dysplastic nevus syndrome

In people who have been diagnosed with this syndrome, the risk of developing skin cancer increases significantly.

You can talk about such a diagnosis if you have melanoma in 1st degree relatives. The syndrome is manifested by many nevi, most of which are dysplastic.

Since the probability of degeneration of such a nevus is high, the patient is examined at least once every 6 months.

At the same time, being in the open sun and visiting a solarium is completely contraindicated for a person. In some cases, the number of such formations exceeds 100.

Diagnostics

When studying a nevus, a specialist is faced with the task of differentiating it from a noncellular, epithelioid formation, basal cell carcinoma, and Dubreuil’s melanosis.

To make a more accurate diagnosis, use:

• dermatoscopy,
• indication by phosphorus isotope,
• radiography,
• thermometry,
• echography.

Since each mole has different properties, the doctor will need to carefully examine it. The examination concerns not only a specific area, but also the entire body, including the mucous membranes. After this, instrumental and hardware research methods are prescribed.

• Dermatoscopy- an examination that allows you to examine a formation magnified several tens of times. The method is considered popular because it allows us to identify the initial stage of melanoma development.
• Phosphorus isotope indication– a highly sensitive technique associated with the accumulation of radioactive phosphorus in the formation. This substance takes part in cell division, but with the formation of melanoma the process is significantly accelerated. Therefore, the method allows you to most accurately make the correct diagnosis.
• Since nevus can have different shapes, it is carried out echography, which involves examining the soft tissue around. This allows you to more accurately determine the size, especially if the formation grows into the thickness of the skin or subcutaneous fat.
• Radiography is carried out using special equipment, since classical technique will not allow you to get the desired result. The method allows you to evaluate the structure itself, especially when it is heterogeneous or has cavities and compactions.
• Thermometry– local measurement of skin temperature. When malignant cells appear, an increase in temperature in a given area is noted. This is a consequence of a more active metabolism. With the development of melanoma, the difference in temperature can reach up to 2.5 degrees.
• In some situations it is prescribed biopsy. It is mainly performed after removal of the nevus. This is due to the fact that in some cases, injury using a tool can lead to serious consequences.

Treatment of education

Medication and surgery are used.

The first type is rarely used, only in situations where the nevus is huge or is located in a place where it is almost impossible to get it.

Sometimes a person refuses surgical treatment, then medication and preventive treatment is prescribed, which will prevent it from turning into melanoma.

Methods for removing dysplastic nevi

Urgent diagnosis and removal is required in a situation if the dysplastic nevus begins to show any dynamics. Surgery is necessary when the doctor begins to suspect that the formation is no longer benign.

The method of surgical excision depends on the exact size of the formation and the characteristics of its shape. For example, if the sizes are large, then the use of a laser is not practical. This is because the nevus can grow and become cancerous again.

Laser is considered the most common in the process of removing small moles. This non-contact method of exposure does not leave scars.

Removal by electric current or liquid nitrogen is sometimes used. Both options are suitable for small formations that may leave a scar. When using cryodestruction, there is still a possibility of incomplete removal of the formation.

Tissue excision occurs under anesthesia. Despite the fact that a scar remains, this method completely eliminates the possibility of removing not all cells.

Features of treatment in children

In children, Clark's nevus is detected if a genetic predisposition is a factor in its occurrence. Immediately after birth, 5% of babies have an education.

It is usually removed immediately if the birthmark is different large sizes or its multiplicity. In children under two years of age, surgical treatment is performed in extreme cases. Drug therapy is usually prescribed.

Most often, the disease begins to manifest itself in adolescence. When spots appear, you must carefully monitor the condition of the skin, avoid exposure to the sun, and smear your body with a protective cream.

Forecast and prevention of the disease

The prognosis depends on hereditary factors and the stage of the disease. At timely treatment and constant observation it is favorable. Doctors remind us that it is necessary to prevent the formation of melanoma.

For this, dermatologists and oncologists will offer:

• avoid injury,
• do not sunbathe, including in a solarium,
• do not be outside in a swimsuit,
• If changes occur, immediately contact a specialist.

If a large number of moles are focused on the back, it is best to capture them with a camera. This will allow you to independently observe their changes. If a person has a symptom, doctors will suggest examining all relatives.

In conclusion, up to 50% of people with a genetic predisposition may develop cancer between the ages of 20 and 55 years. At older ages, this figure reaches 95%. Therefore, only timely removal of the tumor is the key to a long life.

Video about signs of mole degeneration:

A borderline pigmented nevus is a benign pigmented formation no more than 1 cm, gray, brown or black. Simply put, this is an ordinary mole. Borderline nevus does not have a clear localization and can appear on any part of the body. The pathology is most often single in nature; multiple formations appear much less frequently.

Typically, borderline nevus has a congenital etiology, but sometimes appears in infancy, adolescence, or even later. The surface of the border nevus is smooth and even. A characteristic feature of a borderline nevus is the absence of hair on its surface. Another characteristic feature is its localization on the palms and soles. Other types of nevi never appear in these places.

Causes

The leading role in the occurrence of this condition is played by disturbances in the maturation and migration of melanocytes. A border nevus consists of cells that contain large amounts of melanin. Melanocytes spread from the basal layer of the epidermis, migrate and form a borderline pigmented nevus.

Factors that can trigger the development of nevus include hereditary predisposition and UV radiation. Unlike ordinary cells, melanocytes that form a borderline pigmented nevus do not have processes that transfer melanin to surrounding cells. They seem to concentrate all the pigment in themselves.

For this reason, it can be said that the melanocytes that form a borderline nevus have a weak metabolic capacity.

Clinical picture

At an early stage of development, an ordinary mole appears as a light yellow spot with round, clear boundaries. It has a smooth surface that is devoid of hair. The average size of a border nevus is about 0.2-0.5 cm.

During its development, a mole can transform into flat nodules or complex inradermal nevi. According to statistics, 35% of all borderline nevi can transform into a malignant disease, namely melanoma. One of the types of border nevus is the cockade nevus.

It is characterized by gradual saturation of pigmentation along the edges, forming a peculiar pattern in the form of concentric rings on the skin. The degeneration of moles into melanoma or another form of malignant disease can be judged by changes in color, rapid growth of nevus, the appearance of ulcerations, uneven edges, cracks and tubercles.

Diagnostics

The disease is diagnosed by a dermatologist upon examination based on clinical symptoms. In order not to make a mistake when making a diagnosis, dermatoscopy is used. The essence of the method is to use a special fluorescent microscope, which magnifies the image several times.

Another diagnostic method is siascopy. The siascope helps to establish the true picture of the formation (structure of the nevus, color, tendency to malignancy). Histological studies are not carried out for borderline nevus, since damage to it can provoke the development of a malignant disease. A biopsy is performed after the nevus is removed.

However, there are known cases of nevus degeneration into a malignant formation after its surgical removal.

It is necessary to differentiate this pathology with the following pigmentary diseases:

• age spots;
• freckles;
• blue nevi;
• seborrheic keratoma;
• Dubreuil's melanosis;
• Setton's nevi;
• cavernous hemangioma.

It is necessary to make a differential diagnosis between borderline nevus and early melanoma. When identifying melanoma, attention is paid to the fact that the cancerous tumor developed for a long time at the site of the pigmented nevus, which did not cause any subjective sensations. Typically, nevi develop slowly from birth according to the person's weight. However, mechanical damage to the nevus is one of the main factors in the malignancy of the mole.

Treatment of the disease

Those with borderline pigmented nevus should undergo regular medical examinations. Like any other benign skin disease, it does not require urgent excision. But you should know that this pathology belongs to the melanoma-dangerous group. Many experts are inclined to believe that the best way to prevent melanoma is to remove it surgically, especially when the mole is localized in areas of increased trauma.

At the same time, removal of a nevus, even surgically, can cause its malignancy. In this case, you need to conduct a detailed examination of the mole and undergo a consultation with a dermato-oncologist.

Among the methods for removing borderline pigmented nevus, the following predominate:

• surgical;
• laser;
• radio wave.

Other methods, such as electrocoagulation and cryodestruction of the nevus, are not advisable. Many experts are inclined to believe that the above methods cause severe tissue damage, which can provoke the development of melanoma at the site of the removed nevus.

Removing a nevus using a carbon dioxide laser does not leave behind any scarring of the skin. But this method is used only when the doctor is completely confident in the benign etiology of the nevus.

If the size of the nevus does not exceed 5 mm, then the radio wave method is used. It is removed with a radiosurgical knife. This method, like the laser one, does not require sutures.

If malignant degeneration of a nevus is suspected, it is urgently removed. The removed material is sent for histological analysis.

Prevention

Prevention of the disease consists of systematic preventive examinations, since owners of borderline pigmented nevus are at risk due to its malignancy. For this reason, dermatoscopy of moles is performed every six months. People at risk are prohibited from being exposed to UV radiation for a long time and permanent use is recommended. sunscreens with a high protection factor.