University of Queensland scientists have identified a way to help dermatologists determine a patient’s risk of developing melanoma.
University of Queensland scientists have identified a way to help dermatologists determine a patient’s risk of developing melanoma.
UQ Diamantina Institute researcher Associate Professor Rick Sturm said the team uncovered the specific gene variations affecting the number and types of moles on the body and their role in causing skin cancer.
“The goal was to investigate the genetic underpinnings of different mole classes or ‘naevi types’ and understand how these affect melanoma risk,” Dr Sturm said.
“Based on our work, the number of moles in each category can give a more complete assessment of melanoma risk rather than just the number of moles alone.”
Three key mole classes, reticular, globular and non-specific were magnified under a dermoscope to assess their pattern and risk factors.
“We found people who had more non-specific mole patterns increased their melanoma risk by two per cent with every extra mole carried,” he said.
Read more at: The University of Queensland
Three key mole classes, reticular, globular and non-specific were magnified under a dermoscope to assess their pattern and risk factors. (Photo Credit: The University of Queensland)
