Moles are common skin growths. While most are harmless, some have unusual features, known as atypical moles or dysplastic nevi. Understanding them is important for skin health.
Understanding Atypical Moles
Atypical moles are benign growths with visual characteristics similar to melanoma, a serious skin cancer. They often differ from common moles by having irregular shapes, varied colors, and larger sizes. They can appear anywhere, but are often on the trunk, head, and neck.
Dermatologists use the “ABCDEs” of melanoma detection to identify concerning moles. “A” is for Asymmetry, meaning one half of the mole does not match the other. Common moles are typically symmetrical. “B” represents Border irregularity, where the edges are uneven, blurred, or notched, unlike the smooth borders of typical moles.
“C” refers to Color variation within the mole, which may include multiple shades of brown, tan, black, pink, red, or blue. A common mole usually presents a single, uniform color. “D” indicates Diameter, with moles larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser) being of greater concern. “E” stands for Evolving, signifying any change in the mole’s size, shape, color, elevation, or new symptoms like bleeding, itching, or crusting over time.
Why Atypical Moles Matter
Individuals with atypical moles face an increased risk of developing melanoma. While most atypical moles remain benign, their presence signals a higher predisposition to melanoma. The more atypical moles a person has, the greater their risk. For instance, individuals with 10 or more atypical moles are 12 times more likely to develop melanoma compared to the general population.
The risk further increases for those with a family history of melanoma. People with atypical moles and one or more first- or second-degree relatives who have had melanoma are at a significantly heightened risk, potentially 20 to 30 times higher than average. This elevated risk highlights the importance of identifying and regularly monitoring atypical moles.
Monitoring and Medical Care
Regular self-skin examinations help monitor moles. Perform a head-to-toe self-exam monthly, ideally after a bath or shower. During these checks, observe moles for any changes using the ABCDE guidelines. Taking photographs can help track changes over time.
If suspicious changes are observed, or if a mole becomes itchy, painful, or bleeds, seek professional medical evaluation from a dermatologist. Dermatologists use a dermatoscope, a magnifying device, for detailed mole examination. For highly suspicious lesions, a biopsy may be performed for microscopic analysis, which definitively diagnoses melanoma. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Reducing Your Risk
Protecting skin from UV radiation reduces the risk of new moles forming and existing moles changing. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, even on cloudy days, and reapply regularly, especially after swimming or sweating. Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) to minimize direct sun exposure.
Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses. Avoid tanning beds, as they emit high-intensity UV radiation that damages skin cells and significantly increases skin cancer risk, including melanoma.