In the World Health Organisation’s Classification of Skin tumors in 2006, literally hundreds of benign and malignant tumors are catalogued. Fortunately, most of the malignant tumors, (apart from BCC, SCC, and Melanoma) are rare.
The critical events which lead to the development of naevi remain a mystery. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation and genetic factors both play a role. There appears to be a variable relationship between skin, eye and hair colour, the tendency to sunburn and freckle, and the development of naevi.
Dysplastic nevi are moles which are characteristically large, flat (totally or
partially) with irregular shape, indistinct borers and variable pigmentation.
These can be extremely difficult visually to differentiate from melanoma.
1. Wear a hat, protective clothing and sunglasses
2. Use a broad spectrum and SPF 15 or 30+ sunscreen
3. Stay out of the sun during its peak period 11am-3pm
4. Don’t completely avoid the sun, as it is essential to good health