Skin Moles
Overview
Moles (nevi) are common skin growths that occur when pigment cells (melanocytes) grow in clusters. Most adults have between 10-40 moles, which usually appear during childhood and adolescence. While most moles are harmless, some can develop into melanoma, making regular monitoring important.
Types of Moles
- Common moles: Small, round, uniform color (pink, tan, or brown)
- Congenital moles: Present at birth, vary in size
- Dysplastic nevi: Atypical moles with irregular features
- Spitz nevus: Pink or red dome-shaped mole, common in children
- Blue nevus: Deep blue or black colored mole
- Halo nevus: Mole surrounded by white ring
- Acquired moles: Develop after birth, most common type
ABCDE Warning Signs
Monitor moles for these melanoma warning signs:
- A - Asymmetry: One half doesn't match the other half
- B - Border: Irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred edges
- C - Color: Not uniform; shades of brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue
- D - Diameter: Larger than 6mm (pencil eraser size), though melanomas can be smaller
- E - Evolving: Changes in size, shape, color, or symptoms (itching, bleeding)
Additional Warning Signs
- New mole appearing after age 30
- Mole that itches, tingles, or hurts
- Mole that bleeds or oozes
- Mole with a crusty or scaly surface
- Mole that looks different from others ("ugly duckling" sign)
- Rapid growth or elevation changes
Risk Factors for Melanoma
- Sun exposure: UV radiation from sun or tanning beds
- Fair skin: Less melanin protection
- Many moles: More than 50 common moles
- Atypical moles: Dysplastic nevi increase risk
- Family history: Melanoma in close relatives
- Personal history: Previous melanoma or skin cancer
- Weakened immune system: From disease or medications
- Age: Risk increases with age
Evaluation and Treatment
- Visual examination: Dermatologist inspection
- Dermoscopy: Magnified examination of mole
- Mole mapping: Photography to track changes
- Biopsy: Tissue sample if suspicious
- Excision: Complete removal if abnormal
- Regular monitoring: Self-exams and professional checks
Prevention and Monitoring
- Perform monthly self-examinations
- Use mirrors to check hard-to-see areas
- Take photos to track changes
- Protect skin from UV exposure
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+
- Wear protective clothing and hats
- Avoid tanning beds
- Seek shade during peak sun hours (10am-4pm)
When to See a Dermatologist
Schedule an appointment if you notice:
- Any mole with ABCDE changes
- New mole after age 30
- Mole that stands out as different
- Bleeding, itching, or painful mole
- Family history of melanoma
- More than 50 moles
- History of severe sunburns
- Any concerning changes in existing moles
Remember: Early detection of melanoma dramatically improves treatment outcomes. When caught early, melanoma is highly treatable.