A mole is a common skin growth that forms when pigment-producing cells, called melanocytes, grow in clusters. While most moles are harmless, any change in their appearance, such as swelling, can cause concern. This article aims to clarify common reasons for mole swelling and guide you on when to seek medical advice.
Common Reasons for Swelling
Moles can swell for several reasons that are generally not serious. Physical trauma or irritation to the area is a common cause. A mole might get bumped, scratched, or rubbed by clothing, leading to temporary inflammation, redness, or tenderness. This irritation can cause the mole to swell, though it is often short-lived.
An infection developing within or around the mole is another possibility. Moles can become susceptible to bacterial or fungal infections, especially if the skin barrier is broken. Such an infection can cause the mole to swell, become painful, and sometimes produce pus. These infections typically respond well to basic wound care or topical treatments.
Moles can also swell due to general inflammation or irritation from external factors. Harsh soaps, certain cosmetics, or prolonged exposure to irritants can cause a localized reaction. This type of swelling is usually a temporary response and often subsides once the irritant is removed. These benign causes of swelling are typically self-limiting and often resolve without specific medical intervention.
When Swelling Signals Concern
While many instances of mole swelling are harmless, some changes can indicate a more serious underlying condition. Atypical moles (dysplastic nevi) look unusual and can resemble melanoma. While most remain benign, their presence can increase the risk of developing melanoma, and any changes, including swelling, should be monitored.
Melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer, can appear as a new mole or a change in an existing one, with swelling being a potential sign. The growth of cancerous cells can increase the mole’s size and thickness, presenting as swelling or elevation. This change falls under the “E” (Evolving) criterion of the ABCDEs of melanoma, key indicators for evaluating moles. The ABCDEs include:
Asymmetry
Border irregularity
Color variation
Diameter (larger than 6mm)
Evolving changes (new symptoms like itching, bleeding, or swelling)
Although melanoma is the primary concern, other skin cancers can also cause a lesion to swell. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma can present as new or changing skin growths that might become raised, tender, or swollen. Persistent or worsening swelling, especially with pain, itching, bleeding, or significant color changes, warrants professional medical evaluation. These signs suggest a need for closer examination to rule out malignancy.
Knowing When to Seek Professional Advice
Seek professional medical advice if a mole’s swelling persists or worsens over several days. Swelling that does not resolve or becomes more pronounced should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider, especially if accompanied by other symptoms.
Any mole exhibiting additional concerning symptoms, such as pain, tenderness, itching, bleeding, crusting, or discharge, requires medical evaluation. These signs, when present with swelling, increase the likelihood of a significant underlying issue. Any mole showing changes consistent with the ABCDEs of melanoma, particularly “E” for evolving (changes in size, shape, color, or new symptoms), should be promptly assessed.
New moles that appear with concerning features, including swelling or an irregular appearance, also warrant attention. Early detection is a significant factor in successfully treating skin cancers, including melanoma. Consulting a doctor ensures a proper diagnosis and timely intervention if needed.
What to Expect at a Medical Appointment
When you visit a healthcare professional about a swollen mole, the appointment will typically begin with a thorough physical examination. The doctor will visually inspect the mole, often using a specialized handheld magnifying device called a dermatoscope to examine its structure and patterns more closely. This non-invasive tool allows for a detailed view of the mole’s characteristics not visible to the naked eye.
If the mole appears suspicious during the visual examination, the doctor will likely recommend a biopsy. A biopsy involves removing a small sample of the mole or the entire mole for laboratory analysis. Common biopsy types include shave biopsies, where a thin layer of the mole is shaved off; punch biopsies, which involve removing a small, cylindrical piece of tissue; and excisional biopsies, where the entire mole and a small margin of surrounding skin are removed. The choice of biopsy depends on the mole’s size, location, and suspected nature.
The biopsied tissue is then sent to a dermatopathologist, a doctor specializing in skin diseases, who examines it under a microscope to determine its nature. Following the pathology report, your doctor will discuss the results with you. They will explain whether the mole is benign, atypical, or cancerous, and outline any necessary follow-up care or treatment options based on the diagnosis. It is worth noting that most moles that are biopsied are ultimately found to be benign.