Mole mapping in Dubai — dermatoscopic mole checks and follow-up

Key facts

• Dermoscopy shows structures not visible to the eye
• Change over time is the key warning sign
• Use the ABCDE guide and “ugly duckling” sign at home
• Higher-risk patients are often reviewed every 6–12 months
• Suspicious moles are removed and sent for histology

What a mole check and mole mapping involve

A mole check begins with your history: new or changing spots, sunburns, sunbed use, family or personal history of skin cancer and any medications that affect immunity. The dermatologist then examines the skin, including areas you cannot easily see such as the back, scalp and soles. Moles of interest are looked at with a dermatoscope, a handheld magnifying instrument with special lighting that shows structures beneath the surface. In mole mapping, the position and appearance of the moles that need watching are documented so they can be compared at the next visit. The aim is to spot change — the most important early sign of melanoma — rather than to remove every mole.

Who should consider regular mole mapping

Regular checks are often advised for people with many moles (for example more than fifty), several unusual-looking (atypical) moles, a personal or close family history of melanoma, fair skin that burns easily, a history of blistering sunburns in childhood, frequent past sunbed use, or a weakened immune system. People who have lived or worked outdoors in sunny climates for years may also benefit. Those with darker skin are at lower risk overall, but melanoma can still occur, notably on the palms, soles and nails, so changes in these areas should never be ignored. If you are unsure whether you need mapping, a single baseline check helps decide.

The ABCDE signs to watch at home

Between visits, checking your own skin monthly helps you notice change early. Dermatologists use the ABCDE guide: A — asymmetry, one half unlike the other; B — border that is irregular, notched or blurred; C — colour that is uneven, with several shades of brown, black, red, white or blue; D — diameter larger than about 6 mm, although melanomas can be smaller; and E — evolving, any change in size, shape, colour, height, or new symptoms such as itching or bleeding. Also watch for the “ugly duckling”: a mole that looks different from all your others. Photographing hard-to-see areas can make comparison easier.

Follow-up intervals and what happens to suspicious moles

How often you return depends on your risk. People at average risk may need only an occasional check or review of a new spot, while those at higher risk are often reviewed every 6 to 12 months, and a specific mole under observation may be rechecked sooner, commonly after about three months, to see whether it is changing. If a mole looks suspicious, the dermatologist will usually recommend removing it under local anaesthetic and sending it for histology. Dr. Abdullah Anis has a fellowship in dermatopathology, which supports careful interpretation of how lesions look and when sampling is warranted. Results are discussed with you along with any further steps.

Booking a mole check at Manhal Medical Center

Before your appointment, avoid nail polish if nails need checking, and note any spots that worry you. Wear clothing that is easy to change; you can keep underwear on and ask for a chaperone at any time. At Manhal Medical Center in central Dubai, between Al Wasl Road and Sheikh Zayed Road, Dr. Abdullah Anis — a specialist dermatologist with more than 25 years of experience — carries out mole checks in English or Arabic. Seek prompt review rather than waiting for a routine appointment if a mole bleeds, ulcerates, grows quickly or changes colour. You can book by phone on +971 4 328 4560 or on WhatsApp.

Most skin tags and moles are harmless, but anything changing should be checked before removal. With a background in dermatopathology, our dermatologist assesses lesions before choosing laser, shave or excision.

Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-18 · Treating specialist: Dr. Abdullah Anis

This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.