What should you know about intradermal naevus dermoscopy?

An intradermal naevus is a commonly raised mole in which the mole cells sit within the dermis. During dermoscopy, the clinician uses a handheld dermatoscope with magnification and lighting, sometimes with a contact fluid or a digital camera. This can reveal colour patterns, vessels, symmetry, and surface structures that are difficult to judge unaided.

Dermoscopy does not by itself provide a laboratory diagnosis. A reassuring appearance may support observation, while an atypical pattern, repeated change, irritation, or uncertainty may lead to a discussion about removal and laboratory examination.

Do not cover the mole with makeup before the appointment, and bring older photographs if you have them. Tell the clinician when you first noticed it, whether it has changed, and whether it catches on clothing or bleeds after minor trauma. Avoid scratching it while waiting for assessment.

Book a timely skin assessment for a mole that changes in size, shape, colour, or texture, develops persistent bleeding or crusting, becomes repeatedly painful, or looks different from your other moles. Rapid change or a new concerning lesion deserves prompt review rather than relying on a home photograph.

Ask what features were seen through the dermatoscope, whether a baseline image should be stored, when to return for review, and what signs should trigger an earlier appointment. If removal is proposed, ask how the specimen will be examined and what scar to expect.