Skin Conditions > Moles:Everyone has moles, sometimes 40 or more. Most people think of a mole as a dark brown spot, but moles have a wide range of appearances.
Moles can appear anywhere on the skin. They are usually brown in color but can be skin colored and various shapes and sizes. The brown color is caused by melanocytes, special cells that produce the pigment melanin. Most moles appear during the first 20 years of life, although some may appear later on. Sun exposure increases the number of moles, and they may darken.
Each mole has its own growth pattern. The typical life cycle of a common mole takes about 50 years. Recent studies have shown that certain types of moles have a high-than-average risk or becoming cancerous. They may develop into a form of skin cancer known as malignant melanoma. Sunburns may increase the risk of melanoma.
Moles are present at birth and these are called congenital nevi. These moles have a greater tendency to develop into melanoma. Moles known as dysplastic nevi or atypical moles are larger than average (usually larger than a pencil eraser) and irregular in shape. They tend to have uneven color with dark brown centers and a lighter, sometimes reddish, uneven border or black dots at edge. People with dysplastic nevi may have a greater change of developing malignant melanoma and should be seen regularly by a dermatologist to check for any changes. They also need to learn to do self-examinations, looking for changes in the color, size or shape of their moles, or the appearance of new moles
The majority of moles and other blemishes are benign (non-cancerous). They will never be a threat to the health of the person. Spots or blemishes that warrant medical concern are those that do something out of the ordinary-those that act differently from other existing moles. This includes any spot that changes in size, shape, color, bleeds, itches, becomes painful, or moles that appear when a person is past twenty.
If you notice a mole that does not follow the normal patterns, a dermatologist may be able to assure you that the mole is harmless, or confirm that it is cancerous. He or she may remove the mole or part of it (biopsy) to study it under a microscope. If the growth was only partially removed and it is found to be cancerous, then the entire lesion and an extra margin of safety will need to be removed.
A person may wish to get rid of moles that are irritating them, or simply because they are unattractive. The most common methods of removal include numbing and shaving the mole off, or cutting out the entire lesion and stitching the area closed.
Most moles cause no problems. But occasionally a mole may be unattractive, annoying or changing. If you see any signs of change or want a mole removed for cosmetic reasons, consult a dermatologist.
Periodic Self-Examination -
Early detection and removal offer the best chance for a cure. Periodic self-examinations aid in recognition of any new or developing lesion. Get familiar with your skin and your own pattern of moles, freckles, and "beauty marks." Make sure to look at the entire body every month or two. Watch for changes in the number, size, shape, and color of pigmented areas. Consult a dermatologist promptly if any changes are noticed. Individuals at high risk should be examined by a dermatologist on a regular basis.
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