ABCD Mole Check & Skin Cancer Screening in London
The ABCD rule is a simple way to identify suspicious moles that may need medical review. It stands for Asymmetry, Border, Colour and Diameter — four important changes that can help flag possible early skin cancer. At Skinhorizon Clinic in Maida Vale, mole checks are performed with consultant dermatologist-led assessment and dermoscopy.
Reviewed by Dr Mohammad Ghazavi, Consultant Dermatologist. CQC-registered clinic
Private dermatology care in Maida Vale, London. Advanced assessment
Dermoscopy, mole mapping and biopsy pathways where needed. Central London access
Convenient for St John’s Wood, Paddington and West London.
What is the ABCD Mole Check?
The ABCD Mole Check is a practical way to assess moles for warning signs: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation and Diameter. A mole with any concerning ABCD feature, or any mole that is changing, itching, bleeding or crusting, should be reviewed by a dermatologist.
ABCD Mole Check at a glance
| What is the ABCD rule? | A guide for assessing moles: Asymmetry, Border, Colour and Diameter. |
|---|---|
| Why is it important? | It helps identify suspicious changes that may need assessment for melanoma or other forms of skin cancer. |
| Who should consider it? | Anyone with a changing mole, new pigmented lesion, many moles, previous sun damage or a family history of melanoma. |
| How is it assessed? | Clinical examination, dermoscopy and, where appropriate, mole mapping or biopsy. |
| Appointments | 7 days a week (subject to availability). |
| Location | Skinhorizon Clinic, Maida Vale, London W9 — convenient for St John’s Wood, Paddington, West London and Central London. |
Understanding the ABCD rule
Asymmetry
One half of the mole looks different from the other half.
Border
Irregular, scalloped, blurred or poorly defined edges may be concerning.
Colour
Multiple shades, uneven pigment or new colours within one mole need review.
Diameter
Moles larger than 6mm, or moles that are growing, may need assessment.
Why mole checks matter
Melanoma, a type of skin cancer, can often be detected through changes in a mole or a new pigmented lesion. The ABCD rule is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, but it is a useful first step in recognising when a mole should be assessed.
Dermatologists use clinical examination and dermoscopy to examine structures within the mole that are not visible to the naked eye. If needed, mole removal or skin biopsy and diagnostic analysis may be recommended.
Concerned about a changing mole?
A consultant-led mole check can provide reassurance, identify suspicious features and guide whether monitoring, dermoscopy, removal or biopsy is appropriate.
Who should consider a mole check?
Changing moles
Moles that change in size, shape, colour, border, surface or sensation should be reviewed.
New pigmented lesions
A new mole or dark lesion in adulthood, especially if growing, should be assessed.
Higher-risk skin history
Previous skin cancer, family history of melanoma, sun damage, fair skin or many moles may increase the need for monitoring.
Advanced mole assessment at Skinhorizon Clinic
Dermoscopy
Dermoscopy allows a dermatologist to examine pigment patterns and structures in more detail than the naked eye. Learn more about dermoscopy.
Digital mole mapping
Digital imaging can help monitor moles over time, especially for patients with multiple moles or higher skin cancer risk. View digital skin analysis.
Biopsy or mole removal
If a lesion appears suspicious, your dermatologist may recommend diagnostic biopsy or complete removal with histology. Read about skin biopsy or mole removal.
Why choose Skinhorizon Clinic?
Consultant dermatologist-led care
Mole checks are reviewed by Dr Mohammad Ghazavi, Consultant Dermatologist, with a focus on accurate assessment, early detection and safe next steps.
CQC-registered private clinic
Skinhorizon Clinic provides private dermatology care in Maida Vale, London, with a calm, professional and regulated clinical environment.
Clear, personalised advice
Your consultation may include reassurance, dermoscopic monitoring, mole mapping, biopsy or mole removal depending on your individual assessment.
Your first visit — what to expect
History
Discussion of personal risk, family history, sun exposure and any mole changes.
Examination
Visual and dermoscopic inspection of the mole or skin lesions of concern.
Diagnosis
Assessment of ABCD criteria and other clinical warning signs.
Plan
Reassurance, monitoring, mole mapping, removal or biopsy if clinically indicated.
Follow-up
Advice on self-checks, sun protection and future mole monitoring.
Dr Mohammad Ghazavi
Consultant Dermatologist
Skinhorizon Clinic, 4 Clarendon Terrace, Maida Vale, London W9 1BZ.
Last reviewed:
ABCD Mole Check FAQs
What does the ABCD rule stand for?
Does every mole with ABCD features mean skin cancer?
What other signs should I look out for?
How often should I check my moles?
Is mole mapping useful?
What happens if a mole looks suspicious?
Protect your skin with a consultant-led mole check
Early assessment provides reassurance and helps identify suspicious lesions before they become more serious.