Mole often appear as brown or black spots on the skin. They are usually harmless, but it’s important to monitor them for any changes that could indicate skin cancer. Here are some tips on how to determine if your mole is benign or if it needs further evaluation by a dermatologist.
What is a mole?
A mole, also known as a nevus, is a cluster of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. Moles are very common, and most people have between 10 and 40 moles by adulthood. Moles can be tan, brown, black, pink, red, or skin-colored. They can appear anywhere on the body, either alone or in groups. Most moles appear during the first 20 years of a person’s life.
What causes moles?
Moles occur when melanocytes grow in clusters. Melanocytes are cells that produce melanin, which is the pigment primarily responsible for skin color. Moles may darken after sun exposure due to increased production of melanin. Some moles are present at birth, while others may develop later on. Heredity, genetics, and light skin tone can increase the risk of developing moles.
Are moles dangerous?
The vast majority of moles are benign and no cause for concern. However, in rare cases, a mole can develop into melanoma, which is the most serious type of skin cancer. It’s estimated that about 1 in 10 Americans will develop melanoma during their lifetime. Melanoma is almost always curable when detected early. This makes monitoring moles very important.
What does a normal mole look like?
A benign mole is usually uniform in color, shape, and texture. It may be dome-shaped or smooth with a distinct border between the mole and normal skin. Most are smaller than 6 millimeters in diameter, which is about the size of a pencil eraser. They are oval or round and may be tan, brown, black, pink, or flesh-toned. They usually remain stable over time rather than changing in size or appearance.
What changes in a mole may be cause for concern?
Look for any of these changes in an existing mole, which can indicate abnormal or cancerous changes:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.
- Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, blurred, or notched.
- Color: There are multiple colors within the mole including shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue.
- Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 mm or has grown recently.
- Evolving: There are changes in the mole’s size, shape, color, elevation, or another trait.
Any mole that is asymmetrical, has an irregular border, exhibits varied coloration, is greater than 6 mm, or is evolving warrants an evaluation by a dermatologist. Catching melanoma early is key to effective treatment.
What does an abnormal or atypical mole look like?
An atypical mole can have some of the same suspicious changes as a melanoma. Warning signs include asymmetry, irregular borders, color variations, and a diameter over 6 mm. Atypical moles may also be larger than an average mole, with a poorly defined or faded periphery. The surface may be smooth, scaly, or contain bumps or ridges. They are more likely to occur in those with many moles or with a family or personal history of unusual moles.
Can new moles form after age 40?
It’s uncommon but not unheard of for new moles to emerge after age 40. The older you are, the lower the chance a new mole will be benign. One study found that 75% of new moles appearing after age 50 were diagnosed as melanoma. Therefore, any new mole or skin lesion after midlife warrants a prompt dermatological evaluation.
What does it mean if a mole itches?
An itchy mole is not usually cause for alarm, but it’s a good idea to show it to your doctor. Itching can occur as a mole starts to grow or evolve. But itching can also be unrelated, caused by dry skin or eczema around the mole. A persistently itchy mole should be examined to determine if it looks abnormal.
What does it mean if a mole is scaly?
A scaly mole can be a sign of mild irritation, but it can also signal abnormal changes. Also called a seborrheic keratosis, a scaly mole has a rough surface that resembles a wart. The scales are composed of keratin, a protein that protects skin cells. While usually benign, they can sometimes resemble precancerous lesions. It’s wise to point out any new or changing scaly growths to your dermatologist.
Should moles be covered up from the sun?
There is mixed evidence on whether covering up moles offers any protection from sun damage or skin cancer. One study found a lower melanoma risk among those who used sunscreen on their moles, while another found no association. It’s certainly prudent to apply broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to all exposed skin, including over any moles you might have.
Should moles be removed?
Most moles are harmless and require no removal. However, it’s reasonable to remove a mole if its appearance changes, it bleeds or itches, it’s in an area where it gets irritated, or it can be easily injured. Moles will sometimes be removed for cosmetic reasons. Any moles that are suspicious for melanoma or precancer will also be removed.
How can I get a mole checked out?
Make an appointment with your primary care doctor or a dermatologist if you notice any bothersome or suspicious changes to a mole. They will examine the mole and may perform a biopsy if cancer is a concern. It’s important not to delay mole removal if your doctor recommends it. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to surviving melanoma.
Are pictures of moles helpful?
Comparing past and present photos of your moles can be very useful for identifying changes. When seeing a dermatologist, bring along any past photos you might have, including pictures of moles that have been removed. New mole mapping apps even allow you to systematically photograph and catalog moles to track changes over time. This provides helpful information for assessing which moles need further evaluation.
What is mole mapping?
Mole mapping, also called total body photography, creates a record of your moles to help identify any suspicious changes early on. Your doctor may perform mole mapping, which involves photographing the body in a systematic way, often using grids. Any worrisome moles can then be more easily compared to previous images during skin exams. Some medical centers have special rooms dedicated to whole body photography.
Can moles turn into melanoma?
Moles themselves don’t turn into melanoma, but abnormal moles can sometimes develop into cancer over time. About 20% of melanomas arise from an existing atypical mole. The rest arise from normal skin. Risk factors for melanoma include fair skin, having many moles, family history of melanoma, and sun exposure. This makes monitoring moles very important for early detection.
How can I monitor my moles at home?
Perform regular self-exams using a mirror, including hard-to-see areas, and a partner’s help for your back. Use the ABCDE guideline to look for moles that are asymmetric, with uneven borders, multiple colors, larger than 6 mm, or evolving. Photograph moles to compare over time and note any changes in size, shape, or color. See your doctor about any mole changes or new growths that concern you.
What happens if melanoma isn’t treated early?
Catching melanoma early is crucial for effective treatment and positive outcomes. When detected at an early stage, the 5-year melanoma survival rate is 99 percent. Once it spreads to lymph nodes, survival rates drop to 65 percent. And metastatic melanoma that spreads to distant organs has a 5-year survival of just 25 percent. This demonstrates the importance of identifying skin cancer in its earliest stages.
Can kids and babies get melanoma?
Melanoma is very rare in babies and children, but it can occasionally occur even in the first year of life. Risk increases with age, but melanoma has been diagnosed even in teenagers. Warning signs in kids include a new mole or mark, change in an existing mole, pigmented streak under a fingernail or toenail, unexplained bleeding, and swollen lymph nodes. Consult a pediatrician about any concerning skin changes.
Are moles hereditary?
Moles often have a hereditary component, meaning you inherit a tendency to develop moles from parents or grandparents. People with fair complexions and those who freckle easily usually have more moles. Your number of moles is 70% predetermined by genetics and 30% influenced by sun exposure and other factors. Both melanoma and atypical moles can run in families.
Can moles grow back after being removed?
Once a mole has been fully removed down to the bottom layer of skin, it will not grow back. Only the visible portion is taken off, so there are still melanocytes present that formed the original mole. In rare cases, a new mole can emerge near where one was excised. Have any new moles evaluated, especially if you have a history of abnormal moles or melanoma.
What does it mean when a mole suddenly disappears?
It’s natural for some moles to eventually fade away over time. But if a mole disappears suddenly, it could signal an issue. Changing moles, especially ones that disappear spontaneously, should be evaluated by a dermatologist. An absent mole that left without a scar may have been melanoma. Getting any disappearing mole checked is crucial.
Can tanning beds cause moles?
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from tanning beds significantly increases the risk of developing new moles. One study found those who tanned indoors had nearly twice as many moles as non-tanners. More moles raises melanoma risk. Tanning beds emit high intensity UV rays that damage and mutate skin cells. This can lead to burns, accelerated skin aging, and skin cancer.
Can mole removal leave a scar?
There is a risk of scarring with any mole removal procedure, but it tends to be minimal. Shave excision can leave a subtle scar just below skin level, though it will typically fade and be less noticeable over time. The punch procedure often leaves no visible scar. If a mole has extensive roots, an incisional or excisional removal may be done, which is more likely to leave a scar.
What does it mean if a mole is painful?
Most moles are not painful. But a mole that becomes tender, sore, or starts hurting could signal a problem. Pain or tenderness can arise as the mole changes or becomes cancerous. A painful mole can also indicate inflammation or infection. Certain benign growths, like dermatofibromas, can also be painful. Consult your doctor about any new mole discomfort or pain.
What causes a mole to raised?
A raised mole is often harmless, but it can sometimes indicate abnormal changes. A dome-shaped or prominent mole can result from excess melanin production. Normal melanocytic activity can cause the mole to enlarge and protrude outward. But malignant changes like melanoma can also lead to a raised mole. It’s wise to point out any new growths or texture changes to your doctor.
Can moles bleed?
Bleeding is not a typical characteristic of a common mole. But it is one possible sign of melanoma. A mole that bleeds spontaneously or oozes fluid warrants immediate medical attention. Bleeding can result from the blood vessels in a mole changing or becoming fragile. Rubbing, scratching, or injuring a mole can also cause bleeding or scabbing.
What does it mean when you have a lot of moles?
A greater total number of moles on your body, a condition called dysplastic nevus syndrome, is linked to a higher melanoma risk. This is especially true for those with over 50 moles. Large moles and those with irregular features also raise concern. Having many moles can run in families. Be vigilant about monitoring moles and protecting skin if you have numerous moles.
Can moles be a sign of cancer?
Although the vast majority of moles are benign, some abnormal moles can potentially turn into melanoma, which is a serious form of skin cancer. Warning signs like asymmetry, irregular borders, color changes, spreading, and growing may signal cancerous changes in a mole. Any mole that bleeds, itches, or changes warrants medical evaluation for cancer. Catching it early is key.
Conclusion
Monitoring moles and being aware of any changes is vital for detecting skin cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. Know what to look for and speak with your doctor promptly about any concerning moles. Annual skin exams, self-checks, and dermoscopies can all help catch melanoma at an early phase. Prompt mole removal and treatment provides the best odds for surviving melanoma.
