Moles, birthmarks, and beauty marks are common skin features that most people have. They come in various shapes and sizes and are usually harmless. However, sometimes they can indicate a serious condition known as melanoma, a type of skin cancer. So, how do we differentiate between a harmless mole and one that could develop into melanoma?
Not all melanomas start from moles, but all moles are made up of cells called melanocytes. These cells can potentially turn into melanoma. My name is Aaron Mangold, and I am an assistant professor of dermatology at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona. My expertise lies in cancer genomics and using advanced genetics to predict cancer spread and guide treatment options.
Melanocytes have a crucial role in protecting our skin from ultraviolet (UV) damage by producing a pigment called melanin. This pigment is delivered to surrounding skin cells in the epidermis, giving our skin its color. When exposed to UV light from the sun, melanin helps shield our skin from damage and signals the body to produce more melanin, which is why some people tan in the sun.
While this protective system is effective, it is not perfect. Melanocytes have evolved to resist UV light and are less likely to undergo mutations that would typically lead to cell death. They can also move throughout the body. Because melanocytes are less likely to die from DNA damage caused by UV light, they can accumulate mutations and continue to grow, forming non-cancerous growths called “nevi” or moles.
These damaged melanocytes can acquire additional mutations and continue to proliferate, potentially leading to precancerous lesions or melanoma. A common mutation found in many moles is in the BRAF gene, which plays a role in cell signaling and growth. However, a single BRAF mutation is not enough to cause cancer, and not all melanomas originate from moles.
The progression from a melanocyte to melanoma involves a series of changes rather than a single event. Additional mutations can result from further UV damage, preventing normal cell death and leading to uncontrolled growth of cancerous cells. Fortunately, melanomas can be removed if detected early. There are ways to check for irregularities in moles, which we will discuss later.
If melanoma is not detected early, the cancerous cells can acquire properties that enable them to spread beyond the skin. Once they enter the lymphatic system and bloodstream, they can metastasize to other parts of the body, making treatment more challenging. The mortality rate for advanced melanoma is high, with only 23% of patients surviving beyond five years. Therefore, it is crucial to identify abnormal moles early for removal.
An easy way to assess moles is by using the ABCDE rule, which checks for asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven color, increasing diameter, and any changes in the mole. Individuals may notice that a lesion looks different from others on their body, which can serve as a useful sign for self-awareness and prompt them to seek medical evaluation.
Specialists like Dr. Mangold are also exploring immunotherapy to treat later-stage melanoma, utilizing the body’s natural defenses against the disease. The immune system typically identifies and eliminates abnormal cells. However, cancer cells can develop mechanisms to evade detection by the immune system. Recent advancements have focused on blocking these evasion signals, revolutionizing melanoma treatment and cancer care in general.
While immunotherapy is still evolving, there is one preventive measure everyone can adopt. It’s important not to overlook the significance of primary prevention through healthy behaviors and lifestyle choices. As noted by Bert Vogelstein, if there were a pill that could reduce cancer risk by 50%, it would receive widespread attention. Fortunately, we do have that “pill” in the form of healthy habits that can significantly lower cancer risk.
Engage in a hands-on workshop where you will learn how to map moles on a body diagram. This activity will help you understand the importance of monitoring changes in moles over time. You will practice using the ABCDE rule to assess moles and discuss findings with peers.
Conduct an experiment to observe the effects of UV light on skin cells. Use UV-sensitive beads or paper to simulate skin exposure and discuss the role of melanocytes in protecting against UV damage. Reflect on how this relates to the formation of moles and the risk of melanoma.
Analyze real-life case studies of melanoma patients. Work in groups to identify key factors that contributed to the development and progression of melanoma in each case. Discuss the importance of early detection and the role of genetics in melanoma risk.
Participate in a debate on the advancements and challenges of immunotherapy in treating melanoma. Research current treatments and present arguments for or against the use of immunotherapy. This will deepen your understanding of how the immune system can be harnessed to fight cancer.
Attend a seminar focused on lifestyle choices that can reduce cancer risk. Discuss the impact of diet, exercise, and sun protection on melanoma prevention. Create a personal action plan to incorporate these healthy habits into your daily routine.
**Sanitized Transcript:**
Moles, birthmarks, beauty marks. Most people have multiple moles, which come in various shapes and sizes. Usually, they’re harmless, but occasionally they could indicate a serious condition: melanoma. So, when is a mole just a mole, and how can it develop into a serious form of cancer?
Not all melanomas start from a mole, but all moles consist of cells that can become melanomas: melanocytes. Hi, my name is Aaron Mangold. I’m an assistant professor of dermatology at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona. I specialize in cancer genomics and the use of advanced genetics to predict cancer spread and guide treatment options.
Melanocytes primarily protect skin cells from ultraviolet damage by producing a pigment called melanin. They deliver melanin to surrounding skin cells in the epidermis, giving our skin its color. When exposed to ultraviolet light from the sun, melanin protects our skin from damage and signals the body to produce more melanin, which is why some people tan in the sun.
This protective system is effective, but not flawless. Melanocytes have evolved to be resistant to ultraviolet light and are less likely to undergo mutations that would typically lead to cell death. They can also circulate throughout the body. Because melanocytes are less likely to die from DNA damage caused by UV light, they can accumulate mutations and continue to grow, forming non-cancerous growths called “nevi” or moles.
These damaged melanocytes can acquire additional mutations and continue to proliferate, potentially leading to precancerous lesions or melanoma. One common mutation found in many moles is in the BRAF gene, which is involved in cell signaling and growth. However, a single BRAF mutation is not sufficient to cause cancer, and not all melanomas originate from moles.
The progression from a melanocyte to melanoma involves a series of changes rather than a single event. Additional mutations can result from further UV damage, preventing normal cell death and leading to uncontrolled growth of cancerous cells. Fortunately, melanomas can be removed if detected early. There are ways to check for irregularities in moles, which we will discuss later.
What happens if melanoma is not detected early? The melanoma cells can acquire properties that enable them to spread beyond the skin. Once they enter the lymphatic system and bloodstream, they can metastasize to other parts of the body, making treatment more challenging. The mortality rate for advanced melanoma is high, with only 23% of patients surviving beyond five years. Therefore, it is crucial to identify abnormal moles early for removal.
An easy way to assess moles is by using the ABCDE rule, which checks for asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven color, increasing diameter, and any changes in the mole. Individuals may notice that a lesion looks different from others on their body, which can serve as a useful sign for self-awareness and prompt them to seek medical evaluation.
Specialists like Dr. Mangold are also exploring immunotherapy to treat later-stage melanoma, utilizing the body’s natural defenses against the disease. The immune system typically identifies and eliminates abnormal cells. However, cancer cells can develop mechanisms to evade detection by the immune system. Recent advancements have focused on blocking these evasion signals, revolutionizing melanoma treatment and cancer care in general.
While immunotherapy is still evolving, there is one preventive measure everyone can adopt. It’s important not to overlook the significance of primary prevention through healthy behaviors and lifestyle choices. As noted by Bert Vogelstein, if there were a pill that could reduce cancer risk by 50%, it would receive widespread attention. Fortunately, we do have that “pill” in the form of healthy habits that can significantly lower cancer risk.
Moles – Clusters of pigmented cells that appear as small, dark spots on the skin – Regular monitoring of moles is crucial for early detection of skin abnormalities.
Melanoma – A type of skin cancer that develops from the pigment-producing cells known as melanocytes – Early diagnosis of melanoma significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.
Melanocytes – Cells located in the skin that produce melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color – Damage to melanocytes can lead to irregular pigmentation and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Skin – The largest organ of the body, serving as a protective barrier against environmental hazards – Maintaining healthy skin involves protecting it from excessive sun exposure and pollutants.
Cancer – A disease characterized by the uncontrolled division of abnormal cells in a part of the body – Research in cancer biology focuses on understanding the mechanisms that drive tumor growth and metastasis.
Mutations – Changes in the DNA sequence that can lead to genetic disorders or contribute to the development of diseases like cancer – Identifying specific mutations in tumor cells can help tailor personalized cancer treatments.
Detection – The process of identifying the presence of a disease or condition, often through screening or diagnostic tests – Advances in imaging technology have improved the early detection of various cancers.
Treatment – Medical interventions designed to manage or cure a disease – The treatment of melanoma may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapies.
Prevention – Measures taken to reduce the risk of developing a disease – Prevention strategies for skin cancer include using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing.
Habits – Regular practices or behaviors that can influence health outcomes – Developing healthy habits, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, can lower the risk of chronic diseases.
