Ask the expert: I have spots all over my body

I’m a 33-year-old Irish woman and have dark spots on my skin. Doctors said they’re moles or freckles but I’m worried as I have a family history of malignant melanoma. What is your advice?

Individuals of Irish origin mostly have type-1 skin, which is genetically highly predisposed to get freckled, mainly on sun-exposed areas.

Moles need to be closely monitored and examined regularly at least once every six months by an expert dermatologist. Never ignore a changing spot on your body.

Modern systems of mole mapping/mole scanning have come into practice to offer a great degree of diagnostic help to dermatologists. However, these supportive diagnostic tools can only prove their reliability when used through experienced hands and scanned through skilled eyes.

If moles are assessed regularly, chances of catching suspected lesions at an early stage are extremely high. And once detected measures can be initiated to ensure a total cure.