Moles are common skin growths, appearing as small, dark spots on the skin. They form when melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment, grow in clusters instead of spreading evenly throughout the skin. While most individuals have multiple moles, typically ranging from 10 to 45 by adulthood, the vast majority are harmless. These growths can be present at birth (congenital moles) or develop later in life, often after sun exposure (acquired moles).
Identifying Concerning Moles
While most moles are benign, some can develop into melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. Recognizing potentially concerning moles involves understanding the “ABCDEs of Melanoma,” a guide to identifying changes that warrant attention.
Asymmetry refers to a mole where one half does not match the other in shape or appearance. A benign mole has a symmetrical, round, or oval shape. The “B” stands for border irregularity, meaning the edges of the mole are uneven, ragged, notched, or blurred, rather than smooth and well-defined. Normal moles have clear, distinct borders.
Color variation is represented by “C,” indicating multiple colors within the same mole, such as shades of brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue. A typical mole has a consistent color throughout. The “D” signifies diameter, with melanomas being larger than 6 millimeters, roughly the size of a pencil eraser. While it is ideal to detect melanoma when it is small, this size serves as a general guideline.
“E” stands for evolving, meaning the mole has changed over time in terms of size, shape, color, or elevation. Any new symptom within a mole, such as bleeding, itching, or crusting, also falls under this category. This evolution indicates a mole should be evaluated by a medical professional.
When to Consult a Doctor
It is important to consult a healthcare professional if a mole exhibits any of the ABCDE characteristics. Early detection of melanoma significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.
Beyond the ABCDEs, other symptoms should prompt a medical evaluation. These include a mole that becomes itchy, painful, or tender. A mole that begins to bleed, ooze, or crust, or a sore that does not heal, warrants attention. Developing a new mole after the age of 30 is another reason to seek a dermatologist’s assessment, as moles appearing later in life can be more concerning.
Individuals with a personal or family history of melanoma or atypical moles should be vigilant and consider regular skin examinations. Self-monitoring your skin monthly, including areas not exposed to the sun like the scalp, between fingers and toes, and the soles of the feet, can help identify changes. If any mole appears different from others on your body, often referred to as the “ugly duckling” sign, it should be examined by a doctor.