Russian oncologist Mikhail Pilkh has urged individuals to consult a doctor immediately if a new mole appears unusual or starts changing shape, size, or color.
Speaking to Russian news outlet RT, Pilkh warned that melanoma represents the most dangerous form of malignant skin tumor, noting that more than 90 percent of cases develop from pre-existing pigmented nevi.
Pilkh noted that while the vast majority of melanomas arise from existing moles, a smaller proportion can develop on skin that previously appeared entirely normal.
The warning comes as doctors across Russia report a rising number of melanoma detections. According to Pilkh, many of these cases are identified unexpectedly during routine dermoscopy examinations of skin lesions.
Melanoma risks and diagnostic challenges
Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that originates in melanocytes, the specialized cells responsible for producing melanin pigment. Although melanoma accounts for a smaller percentage of skin cancer diagnoses compared to basal cell or squamous cell carcinomas, it is significantly more aggressive due to its tendency to spread to other parts of the body if not detected early. Dermoscopy is a non-invasive diagnostic technique where clinicians use a specialized magnifying instrument to inspect pigment structures beneath the skin surface.
Pilkh cautioned that melanoma can spread rapidly throughout the human body, attacking vital organs including the lymph nodes, liver, lungs, bones, and brain. This capacity for fast dissemination makes early detection critical to patient survival.
Pilkh works as an oncologist at SM-Clinic, one of the largest networks of private multidisciplinary medical centers in Russia. Operating multiple clinical facilities, the group provides comprehensive healthcare services including diagnostic imaging, surgery, and specialized cancer treatment.
Long-term monitoring and cancer treatment
Even when a mole is identified early and successfully treated, Pilkh stressed that patients must maintain ongoing medical supervision. He urged individuals who have recovered from melanoma not to neglect continuous follow-up care in order to prevent potential disease relapse.
The oncologist's remarks come following recent statements in Russia pointing toward impending progress and advancements in treating several forms of cancer, including melanoma.
Medical guidelines routinely advise individuals to monitor skin lesions using visual criteria such as asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven coloration, and changes in size over time. Health authorities emphasize that early medical evaluation of suspicious skin changes provides the best prognosis for treatment.
