Moles are common skin growths that form when pigment-producing cells, called melanocytes, cluster together. Most individuals develop between 10 and 40 moles during childhood and adolescence. While moles are generally harmless, bleeding from a mole is not typical without an underlying reason. If a mole bleeds spontaneously or repeatedly, it can signal a condition that requires medical attention.
Reasons a Mole Might Bleed
A mole may bleed for several reasons, ranging from minor irritation to more serious concerns. Bleeding often results from physical trauma or irritation. This can happen if a mole is scratched, rubbed by clothing, or nicked during shaving. Raised moles are particularly susceptible to such accidental injuries due to their prominence.
Sometimes, an irritated mole can become infected, leading to symptoms like bleeding, crusting, or oozing. Bleeding without apparent injury can be a more significant indicator. This spontaneous or recurrent bleeding might suggest changes within the mole’s structure, making the skin tissue fragile.
Bleeding from a mole, especially when persistent or without trauma, can be a sign of an atypical mole or skin cancer, such as melanoma. Melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer, can cause a mole to ulcerate or scab, resulting in bleeding that does not heal properly. Other skin cancers, like basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), can also present as a bleeding spot that does not heal.
When to Consult a Doctor
Seeking medical attention for a bleeding mole is important, particularly if the bleeding is persistent, recurrent, or occurs without a clear cause. Spontaneous bleeding warrants a professional evaluation.
It is important to consult a doctor if bleeding is accompanied by other changes in the mole. These include alterations in size, shape, or color, asymmetry, or irregular borders. Additional symptoms like itching, tenderness, pain, or a crusty or flaky appearance also indicate a need for medical assessment.
Medical Evaluation of a Bleeding Mole
When consulting a healthcare professional about a bleeding mole, the process begins with a visual inspection. The doctor will carefully examine the mole, often using a specialized magnifying tool called a dermatoscope, to observe its characteristics in detail. During this visit, the doctor will also gather a patient history, asking about when the bleeding started, how frequently it occurs, and any other associated symptoms or changes observed.
If the mole appears suspicious during the visual examination, a skin biopsy may be recommended. This procedure involves removing a small sample of the mole or the entire mole for laboratory analysis. The biopsy helps determine if the cells are benign or cancerous. Once the lab results are available, the doctor will discuss the findings with the patient and outline any necessary follow-up treatments or monitoring plans.