Melanocellular nevi, which are widely known as “moles”, are benign tumors that are formed by accumulations of cells that are called nevi cells.
Description
Melanocellular nevi, which are widely known as “moles”, are benign tumors that are formed by accumulations of cells that are called nevi cells. Nevi can be identified as: a) congenital, which are visible from birth, and b) acquired, which develop at a later stage. A nevus can be removed, because: a) it is suspicious for transformation, b) it is in an area that is frequently injured, and causes problems that affect everyday life, c) it causes an aesthetic problem. The recommended way to remove a nevus should be decided after a discussion with a Dermatologist. The selection of an appropriate removal method is determined according to the results of the mapping, digital dermatoscopy, and clinical assessment of nevi.
In general, the ways to remove the nevi are the following:
Laser removal
It is selected as an excision method, only if it is absolutely certain that the nevus is benign. The lesion is removed more superficially, and the operation does not usually leave any scar.
Shave-excision
The removal is performed with local anesthesia (xylocaine solution). After local anesthesia of the area, the nevus that sticks out is removed with a blade. In case of a supplementary removal and hemostasis, CO2 laser or/and diathermy are used.
Surgical excision
Nevi that are suspicious for malignancy, or flat moles, are removed by surgical excision, setting boundaries perimetrically of them (healthy boundaries), in order to completely remove and send them for biopsy. In case of surgical excision, there is a mark (scar), depending on the depth of the mole, its size, removal method, and healing ability of each person, which, however, can be improved with Laser at a later stage.
