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Moles

Moles are brown or black growths, usually round or oval, that can appear anywhere on the skin. They can be rough or smooth, flat or raised, single or in multiples. They occur when cells that are responsible for skin pigmentation, known as melanocytes, grow in clusters instead of being spread out across the skin. Generally, moles are less than one-quarter inch in size. Most moles appear by the age of 20, although some moles may appear later in life. Most adults have between 10 and 40 moles. Because they last about 50 years, moles may disappear by themselves over time.

Most moles are harmless, but a change in size, shape, color or texture could be indicative of a cancerous growth. Moles that have a higher-than-average chance of becoming cancerous include:

Congenital Nevi

Moles present at birth. The larger their size, the greater the risk for developing into a skin cancer.

Atypical Dysplastic Nevi

Irregularly shaped moles that are larger than average. They often appear to have dark brown centers with light, uneven borders.

Use the American Academy of Dermatology's ABCDEs as a guide for assessing whether or not a mole may be becoming cancerous:

Asymmetry: Half the mole does not match the other half in size, shape or color.

Border: The edges of the mole are irregular or blurred.

Color: The mole is not the same color throughout.

Diameter: The mole is larger than one-quarter inch in size.

Elevation: The mole becomes elevated or raised from the skin.

THE ABCDE’S OF MOLES

Signs and Symptoms

MOLE

A mole on your body has these traits:

• One color generally brown, but a mole can be tan, black, red, pink, blue, skin-toned, or colorless
• Round in shape
• Flat or slightly raised
• Looks the same from month to month

Your moles may not look alike. Even in the same person, moles can differ in size, shape, or color. Moles can have hair. Some moles will change slowly over time, possibly even disappearing.  Moles can appear anywhere on the skin. Moles develop on the scalp, between the fingers and toes, on the soles and palms, and even under the nails.

MELANOMA

If you see a mole or new spot on your skin that has any of the ABCDEs of melanoma, see a dermatologist immediately.  Prompt action is your best protection. The pictures below show normal moles and melanomas.

If any of these conditions occur, please make an appointment to see one of our dermatologists right away. The doctor may do a biopsy of the mole to determine if it is or isn't cancerous and/or may surgically remove it.

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