Moles can appear on any part of the body, including the scalp. These common skin growths form when pigment cells, called melanocytes, cluster together. Moles on the scalp can be an early sign of melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. Early detection of any changes is crucial for effective management.
Presence and Characteristics of Scalp Moles
While moles can appear anywhere, those on the scalp may be influenced by genetics and sun exposure, even though hair offers some protection. Hair acts as a barrier to the sun’s ultraviolet radiation, but this protection can be reduced with thinning hair or bald spots, making the scalp more vulnerable.
Benign scalp moles often resemble those found on other body parts. They can be flat or raised, and their color may vary, appearing as shades of pink, tan, or brown. Common moles are generally smaller than a pencil eraser, round or oval, with distinct, smooth edges and an even color. A key characteristic of benign moles is their stability over time; they do not change significantly in appearance. However, moles on the scalp are often hidden by hair, which can make them harder to notice during routine self-checks.
Self-Examination and Detection
Checking for moles on the scalp presents unique challenges because hair can obscure them. Regular self-examination is important for early detection of any new moles or changes to existing ones. An effective method involves using a full-length mirror and a handheld mirror in a well-lit room.
Use a comb or your fingers to part your hair into sections, allowing you to visually inspect the scalp. Feeling your scalp with your fingers for any new bumps, sores, or patches hidden by hair is also helpful. Asking a trusted partner or family member to help examine hard-to-see areas like the back of your head can also be beneficial. Some individuals ask their hairstylist or barber to point out any unusual spots they might notice during appointments.
Warning Signs and When to Seek Medical Advice
Recognizing specific warning signs is important for identifying moles that might be atypical or concerning. The ABCDEs of melanoma provide a helpful guide for this assessment:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
- Border: Irregular, ragged, or blurred edges.
- Color: Variation, where the mole has different shades of brown, black, red, pink, blue, or gray.
- Diameter: Greater than 6 millimeters, roughly the size of a pencil eraser.
- Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or elevation, or new symptoms like bleeding, itching, or crusting.
Scalp moles can be dangerous due to delayed detection. Their hidden location under hair means changes might go unnoticed for longer periods, potentially allowing melanoma to advance. Melanomas on the scalp and neck may be more lethal than those elsewhere, possibly due to a higher concentration of blood vessels and lymphatics in the area, which could facilitate spread. If any mole on your scalp exhibits these warning signs, or if you notice any new growths, sores that do not heal, or persistent itching or bleeding, seek professional medical advice promptly.
Medical Evaluation and Management
When a suspicious scalp mole is identified, a healthcare professional will conduct a medical evaluation. This process begins with a visual examination, where the doctor inspects the mole. They may use a specialized tool called a dermatoscope, which magnifies the skin, to examine the mole in greater detail.
If the mole appears concerning, a biopsy will be performed. This involves removing a sample of the mole, or the entire mole, which is then sent to a laboratory for microscopic examination to determine if it is benign or malignant. If the mole is confirmed to be melanoma, surgical excision is a common management option, often involving the removal of the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy skin around it. The specific treatment approach depends on the type of skin cancer and its stage. Early detection through regular checks and professional evaluations significantly improves the chances of successful treatment.