Moles in Children
Monitoring of moles and birthmarks in children – by an experienced pediatric dermatologist at Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich – Sihlcity
Moles in Children
Have chronic abscesses and painful nodules clarified and treated by an experienced dermatologist at the Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich - Sihlcity
Skin spots in children should be checked regularly:
Comprehensive and thorough skin examination using high-resolution photo documentation and a special dermatoscope that makes even the smallest changes visible
Examinations
Assessment of the mole
Special dermatoscope
Photo documentation
Process
Personal consultation
Thorough skin examination
Duration
approx. 20–30 minutes
What Is a Mole?
Moles – often called birthmarks – are completely normal and common in children. They are caused by a collection of pigment-producing cells in the skin and can vary in size and appear light to dark brown.
Moles that are present at birth (known as congenital nevi) or that are larger or irregularly shaped are often monitored more closely, as they can rarely carry a higher risk of developing into skin cancer.
It’s especially important to have a mole (skin spot) checked in children if:
- A mole is present at birth (congenital nevus)
- The spot gets larger or changes in size, color, or shape over time
- The mole is on a conspicuous area of the body (e.g. face, scalp, genital area)
- There is a family history of skin cancer
- There is uncertainty about whether a mole is harmless or should be monitored
What Happens During a Mole Check for Children?
At Derma Medical Clinic, moles in children are carefully examined. The specialized children’s dermatologist checks the shape, color, size, and borders of the spot. A dermatoscope, a special magnifier, is then used to examine skin structures not visible to the naked eye.
If a mole looks suspicious, a high-resolution photo documentation is created to monitor changes over time.
What if a mole appears unusual in a child?
Not every large or congenital mole must be removed. What matters is whether the mole changes – for example in size, shape, color, or structure.
If that’s the case, or if other risk factors are present, removal may be recommended. The decision is always based on the individual findings, following current medical guidelines and aiming to avoid unnecessary procedures.
How Does a Mole Check Work for Children?
Important: The examination takes place calmly and at your child’s pace. We only conduct examinations or treatments if your child feels safe. No child is ever pressured – we respond with patience and experience to your child’s needs and mood.
Personal consultation and risk assessment
We talk with you about your child’s skin health, any noticeable changes, family history, or risk factors.
Thorough skin check
Skin spots are closely examined using a dermatoscope – a special magnifier that reveals tiny details invisible to the naked eye.
Photo documentation (if needed)
If a mole appears unusual, we take high-resolution photos to monitor changes over time.
Individual recommendation
We then discuss whether ongoing observation is sufficient or if removal might be advisable. All decisions are carefully considered to avoid unnecessary procedures.
At Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich – Sihlcity, children are treated by Dr. Markus Dendorfer, a board-certified dermatologist specialized in pediatric dermatology.
He brings many years of experience in child-friendly skin diagnostics and care, and is skilled at responding to the unique needs of young patients.
Dr. Benjamin Miller
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology FMH
Dr. med. Markus Dendorfer
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology FMH
What Makes Derma Medical Clinic Special
Specialist children's dermatology
Specialist care with extensive experience in assessing moles and congenital skin spots in children.
Thorough diagnostics
Careful examination using a special dermatoscope and – if needed – high-resolution photo documentation for ongoing monitoring.
Individual risk assessment
Every recommendation (follow-up or removal) is based on individual findings and current medical guidelines – avoiding unnecessary procedures.
Child-friendly approach
Plenty of patience, empathy, and a calm approach make children and parents feel well cared for.
Everything under one roof
All services – exams, follow-ups, or minor procedures – take place on site, no need to go elsewhere.
Would you like to have your child’s congenital or unusual mole professionally examined in a calm and caring setting?
Book an appointment now in the pediatric clinic at Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich – Sihlcity.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Moles and Congenital Skin Spots in Children
What are moles in children?
Congenital moles (congenital nevi) are spots that are already present at birth. They form when skin cells responsible for pigment gather in one area.
How common are moles in children?
Moles (also called birthmarks) are very common. Around 1 in 100 children is born with a congenital mole (also known as a congenital nevus). More moles often appear during childhood.
Are moles in children dangerous?
Most moles in children are harmless. However, large congenital spots can slightly increase the risk of skin cancer, so regular monitoring by a doctor is recommended.
How can I recognize a suspicious mole?
Suspicious moles may change in size, color, shape, or structure. A good guide is the ABCDE rule:
- Asymmetry: The mole is uneven in shape – one half looks different from the other.
- Border: The edges are irregular or blurry.
- Color: The mole has different shades, like light brown, dark brown, or black.
- Diameter: The mole is larger than about 5 millimeters.
- Evolution: The mole changes over time – in size, shape, or color.
Do large moles in children need to be removed?
Not every large mole needs to be removed. The decision depends on size, location, possible changes, and individual risk. The dermatologist will discuss the best approach in each case.
How is a mole removed?
Moles are removed in a small procedure under local anesthesia. The removed tissue is then examined in a laboratory to make sure it’s harmless.
Do moles grow as children grow?
Yes, moles usually grow in proportion with the child. However, any sudden or unusual changes should be checked by a doctor.
Can moles be inherited?
Moles themselves are not directly inherited, but they can be more common in some families.
