Moles are common skin growths composed of pigment-producing cells known as melanocytes. The vast majority are entirely harmless. While moles can appear in various shapes and sizes, some may have a bumpy surface. Understanding these variations helps distinguish between typical and atypical growths.
Common and Benign Reasons for Bumpy Moles
Dermal nevi are a common type of mole that often presents as raised or dome-shaped lesions. These can be flesh-colored or light brown and are typically benign. Their raised texture is a natural characteristic of their cellular composition.
Seborrheic keratoses are common benign skin growths that can appear bumpy or wart-like. They often have a waxy, “stuck-on” appearance and range from light tan to dark brown. While not moles, they are frequently mistaken for them and typically develop with age.
Some moles, including those present since birth, can naturally develop a raised or bumpy texture. This change is usually not a problem if the mole remains stable in appearance, color, and size. Benign bumpy moles do not change rapidly or show other concerning characteristics.
Warning Signs of Concerning Bumpy Moles
Melanoma, a serious skin cancer, can appear as a new or changing bumpy mole. These often display an irregular shape, uneven coloration, and may grow rapidly in size. Prompt evaluation of such changes is important.
Other non-melanoma skin cancers, such as Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), can also present as raised lesions. Basal Cell Carcinoma often appears as a pearly or waxy bump, sometimes with visible blood vessels. It can also resemble a flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like area.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma might appear as a firm, red nodule or a scaly, crusted lesion. It can also be a sore that does not heal or repeatedly bleeds. Any persistent, non-healing lesion, especially if raised, warrants medical attention.
The ABCDEs of melanoma provide a helpful guide for identifying potentially problematic moles:
- A is for Asymmetry: one half of the mole does not match the other.
- B is for Border irregularity: edges are ragged, notched, or blurred.
- C is for Color variation: different shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue.
- D is for Diameter: moles larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser).
- E is for Evolving: any change in size, shape, color, elevation, or new symptoms like bleeding, itching, or crusting.
What to Do About a Bumpy Mole
If a bumpy mole exhibits any ABCDE warning signs, is new and suspicious, or causes itching, bleeding, crusting, or pain, seek medical evaluation. A dermatologist can assess the mole. Early detection of skin cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes.
During a doctor’s visit, a dermatologist typically performs a visual examination, often using a dermatoscope. This tool allows for a detailed view of the mole’s structure and pigment patterns, helping distinguish between benign and suspicious lesions.
If the mole appears suspicious after examination, a biopsy is usually the next step. This involves removing a tissue sample for laboratory analysis. A dermatopathologist then examines the tissue under a microscope to determine if cancerous cells are present and establish a diagnosis.
If the biopsy confirms cancer, removal of the lesion is often the primary treatment. The specific approach depends on the cancer type, stage, and location. Early detection through self-examinations and professional screenings remains crucial for managing skin cancers.