What exactly is a mole?
A mole — a “naevus” — is a small cluster of pigmented cells in the skin. Most people have several dozen; in the vast majority of cases they are entirely benign and remain so for life.
Some appear in childhood, others in adulthood; they can change slightly over time, under the effect of age, pregnancy or the sun. The goal, then, is not to be alarmed by every mole, but to learn to recognise the rare situations that deserve a medical opinion.
Which changes should prompt me to consult?
The question asked in the clinic is often direct: is this mole a bad one? Rather than seeking a definitive answer alone, it helps to recognise the signs that should lead you to consult:
- A rapid change in size, shape, colour or thickness.
- A lesion that bleeds, itches, becomes painful or does not heal.
- A mole that clearly stands out from all the others (the “ugly duckling”).
- The appearance of a new pigmented lesion in adulthood.
None of these signs alone means there is a serious problem — but each is a good reason to show the lesion to a dermatologist rather than wait.
How do I use the ABCDE rule?
The ABCDE rule is a simple reference, taught by dermatology societies, to help decide whether to consult:
- A — Asymmetry: the two halves of the lesion do not match.
- B — Borders: irregular, poorly defined or jagged edges.
- C — Colour: several shades within a single lesion.
- D — Diameter: a large size, to watch especially if it is increasing.
- E — Evolution: any change over time is the most important sign.
This rule is an alert tool, not a diagnosis. A mole can be benign while ticking one of the letters, and a lesion can be concerning without ticking them all. Only a medical exam can conclude.
What does the dermatologist do during the consultation?
The dermatologist examines the whole skin, often with a dermatoscope — an illuminated magnifier that reveals details invisible to the naked eye. They may photograph certain lesions to compare them over time. If a lesion looks doubtful, they may propose removing it and analysing it (histopathology): that is the only way to obtain certainty. This approach is common and in no way prejudges the result.
How do I protect myself and reduce the risk?
The main modifiable risk factor for skin cancers is exposure to ultraviolet radiation, from the sun and from tanning beds. The recognised preventive measures are simple: seek shade during the hottest hours, wear covering clothing, a hat and sunglasses, apply a high-factor sunscreen and reapply it, and be especially vigilant with children, whose skin is more fragile.
In Morocco’s climate, very sunny for much of the year, these habits keep their full meaning day to day, not only at the beach.
When should I consult without delay?
Make an appointment quickly for a lesion that changes fast, bleeds, ulcerates or worries you — even if it does not tick every box of the ABCDE rule. The prognosis of skin cancers is closely tied to how early they are managed: here, consulting early for “nothing” is always better than waiting.
Two situations we often see
Khadija, Marrakech
Khadija notices that a mole on her back, pointed out by a relative, has slightly changed shape. Unable to see it herself, she consults. The dermoscopic exam lets the doctor assess the lesion and define suitable monitoring with her. The episode illustrates the value of having someone look at the areas you cannot see yourself.
Rachid, Tangier
Rachid, who has fair skin and a family history, is worried about a new small spot. The dermatologist examines it, judges it benign, and takes the opportunity to recall sun-protection habits and the follow-up rhythm suited to his profile. Consulting did not lead to a problem: that too is a useful consultation.
Sources
- World Health Organization (WHO) — ultraviolet radiation and health.
- Ministry of Health and Social Protection of Morocco — sante.gov.ma.
- World Health Organization (WHO) — who.int.
Frequently asked questions
Are all moles that change dangerous?
No. A mole can change with age, pregnancy or sun exposure without being abnormal. What matters is the type of change: a rapid change in size, shape, colour or appearance, or a lesion that clearly stands out from the others, warrants a dermatological opinion. When in doubt, it is the dermatologist who decides, not self-examination alone.
What is the ABCDE rule?
It is a memory aid for spotting suspicious moles: A for Asymmetry, B for irregular Borders, C for uneven Colour, D for large Diameter, E for Evolution over time. It helps you decide whether to consult, but it makes no diagnosis: only a medical exam, possibly completed by dermoscopy or a biopsy, can conclude.
How often should moles be monitored?
Regular self-monitoring is useful, using a mirror for areas that are hard to see. The frequency of dermatological consultations depends on your profile: the number of moles, personal or family history, skin type, sun exposure. Your dermatologist will set a suitable rhythm with you.
Does the sun play a role?
Exposure to ultraviolet radiation, particularly sunburns in childhood, is a recognised risk factor for skin cancers. Sun protection — shade during the hottest hours, covering clothing, high-factor cream, particular care with children — remains the best-documented preventive measure.
Disclaimer
This content is purely informative and does not replace a medical consultation. It illustrates the way ANDM writes its sheets: from the practitioner’s expertise, then validated and signed by the doctor (reviewedBy) before publication, in accordance with the Moroccan Code of Medical Ethics. For any question about your health, speak to your doctor.