Moles, medically known as nevi, are common skin growths. While most moles are harmless, some can change over time or indicate underlying health concerns.
Understanding Moles
Moles are collections of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. Moles typically appear as small, dark spots and can vary in appearance, being flat or raised, and ranging in shades of brown or black. Most individuals develop between 10 to 45 moles during childhood and adolescence, and these growths are generally benign.
Potential Health Concerns Associated with Moles
While most moles remain benign, a primary concern is their potential to transform into melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. Melanoma can develop from an existing mole or appear as a new spot on the skin. Although only about 30% of melanomas originate from existing moles, the majority begin on otherwise normal skin. Having many moles, especially over 100, can increase the risk of melanoma.
Atypical moles, also known as dysplastic nevi, are a specific type of mole that can appear unusual. While not cancerous themselves, atypical moles are a risk factor for melanoma. The risk increases with the number of atypical moles; for instance, having 10 or more atypical moles can increase melanoma risk by 12 times.
Other less common skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, typically do not originate from moles but can sometimes appear near them. Basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of skin cancer, usually presents as a new lump or scaly patch. Squamous cell carcinoma is also linked to sun exposure. Beyond cancer, moles can experience benign issues like irritation or infection if they are frequently rubbed or scratched by clothing or jewelry.
Recognizing Changes in Moles
Monitoring moles for changes is a practical step for skin health. The ABCDEs of melanoma detection offer a guide for identifying potentially concerning moles.
“A” stands for Asymmetry, meaning one half does not match the other. “B” is for Border irregularity, where the edges are uneven, notched, or blurred. “C” represents Color variation, indicating multiple colors or uneven shades within the mole. “D” refers to Diameter, with moles larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser) being a warning sign, though melanomas can be smaller. “E” signifies Evolving, which means any change in the mole’s size, shape, color, or elevation, or new symptoms like bleeding or itching. Regular self-examination of the skin, including hard-to-see areas, is important for noticing these changes.
When to Consult a Doctor
Seeking medical evaluation is advisable if a mole exhibits any of the ABCDE signs. It is also recommended to consult a doctor for any new mole that appears in adulthood, as these are more likely to be cancerous than older moles. Moles that are itching, bleeding, painful, inflamed, or rapidly changing also warrant a medical visit. Individuals with a family history of melanoma should discuss this with their doctor, as it increases their personal risk. Early detection of melanoma significantly improves treatment outcomes.