A mole, medically known as a nevus, is a common skin growth composed of melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin. These growths can vary in size, shape, and color, typically appearing as small, brown spots. Most moles are benign and do not pose a health risk.
How Moles Can Change
Existing moles can change over time and develop into skin cancer, particularly melanoma. Melanoma is a serious skin cancer that can originate from an existing mole or appear as a new spot. These changes often stem from genetic mutations in melanocytes, triggered by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV light, from both sunlight and tanning beds, can damage DNA, leading to uncontrolled cell growth. Any noticeable alteration warrants professional attention.
Identifying Concerning Changes
Recognizing changes in moles is important for early melanoma detection. Dermatologists use the “ABCDEs” rule to identify potentially concerning moles:
Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half in shape or appearance. Benign moles are symmetrical.
Border irregularity: The edges of the mole are uneven, ragged, notched, or blurred, rather than smooth and well-defined.
Color variation: Multiple colors within the same mole, such as different shades of brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue. A uniform color is less concerning.
Diameter: Greater than 6 millimeters, roughly the size of a pencil eraser, can be a red flag. Melanomas can be smaller, so size alone is not the only indicator.
Evolving: Any change over time in the mole’s size, shape, color, or elevation. New symptoms like itching, bleeding, or crusting require immediate evaluation.
Factors Increasing Risk
Several factors increase the likelihood of moles changing or developing into melanoma. Excessive UV exposure from the sun or tanning beds is a primary risk factor, especially blistering sunburns. People with fair skin, light hair (blonde or red), and light-colored eyes (blue, green, or gray) are more susceptible due to lower melanin levels, which provides natural protection against UV radiation.
Having a large number of moles, particularly more than 50, increases the risk of melanoma. Atypical moles (dysplastic nevi) are benign but can have irregular shapes, colors, or borders, making them more difficult to distinguish from melanoma and indicating a higher risk. A personal history of melanoma or other skin cancers like basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma also elevates the risk of developing new melanomas.
A family history of melanoma significantly increases an individual’s risk. About one in ten melanoma patients have a family member with the disease, and the risk is higher if a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) has been diagnosed. Genetic mutations can run in families, predisposing individuals to a higher risk. A weakened immune system, whether due to medical conditions like HIV or medications for organ transplants, can also increase the risk of melanoma.
When to Seek Medical Attention
It is important to consult a dermatologist or doctor if any mole exhibits signs described by the ABCDE rule. Any new mole that appears, especially after age 30, or any existing mole that changes in size, shape, or color, should be evaluated. Concerning symptoms include moles that itch, bleed, or cause pain.
Regular self-skin exams are encouraged to monitor for any changes or new growths. For individuals with higher risk factors, professional skin screenings with a dermatologist are beneficial. Early detection of melanoma is crucial as it significantly improves treatment outcomes.