Relative Risk Factors
- Having over 50 moles over 2mm in size (OR ~ 3.5)
- Unusually high sun exposure (OR 2.6)
- Light colored eyes (OR 1.5)
- First degree relative with MM (OR = 1.8)
Little aside on Odds Ratio
The odds ratio compares the occurrence of the outcome in the presence of a particular exposure, with the occurrence of the outcome in the absence of a particular exposure.
If the odds ratio is greater than 1 there is said to be an association (note – this doesn’t prove causation). The greater the odds ratio the stronger the association.
Atypical Mole Syndrome
- 50 or more moles over 2mm
- 3 or more are atypical in appearance
- ->5mm
- – flat with raised edges
- -oval rather than round
- – some colour variation
- Occurs in 2% of population
- 7-10 times more likely to develop melanoma
7 Point Weighted Checklist
Major Features score 2 points for each
- Change in size
- Change in shape
- Irregular Colour
Minor Features score 1 point for each
- Largest diameter 7mm or more
- Inflammation
- Oozing
- change in sensation