Moles

What are moles?

Moles (also, nevi) are skin growths that develop when skin cells called melanocytes clump together. Melanocytes make melanin, which creates color in the skin. So, when the cells cluster, it causes a deeper-than-usual color deposit. 

What do moles look like?

Most moles have the following characteristics. 

Color

Moles are generally a single color. Typically, they’re brown, but they can be almost any color, including black, red, blue, pink, or the same color as the surrounding skin.  

Shape

Moles are generally round and flat, but they may be a bit raised.

Overall appearance

Most moles remain the same size, shape, and color over time. 

If your mole doesn't fit these characteristics, you could have a dysplastic nevus (abnormal mole). An abnormal mole requires medical attention. 

What are the signs of an abnormal mole?

There are five signs to check for when evaluating moles. The ABCDE signs are:

Asymmetry 

Abnormal moles look different from ordinary round moles, often with two non-matching halves. 

Borders

An abnormal mole often has irregular borders, for example, scalloped or jagged-looking edges.

Color

While most moles have a single color throughout, an abnormal mole frequently features deposits of two or more different colors. 

Diameter

The total size of an abnormal mole is generally larger than other moles. In general, abnormal moles are about as large as a pencil eraser (or larger).

Evolution

If your mole is evolving — growing larger, changing shape, protruding from the skin more than before, becoming painful, or changing in some other way — it’s probably an abnormal growth requiring evaluation.

Dr. Richey is a dysplastic nevi expert who can skillfully examine your mole in the office and then recommend the best course of treatment.  

Are abnormal moles cancerous?

If you have abnormal moles, you have an increased risk of melanoma (the most dangerous form of skin cancer). People with 10 or more abnormal moles have a twelve-fold increase in melanoma risk. 

Most abnormal moles aren’t actually cancerous at the time of their discovery, but because they increase your risk of melanoma, it’s important to treat them promptly.

How are moles treated?

Dr. Richey may recommend monitoring if you have a common mole with no signs of abnormalities. For example, if you have had a mole since birth and it’s never changed or bothered you in any way, Dr. Richey may keep an eye on it during your skin exams but not recommend immediate removal. 

If you have an abnormal mole, Dr. Richey likely performs a biopsy to look for precancerous and cancerous cells. Should those cells occur within the mole, Dr. Richey can perform dermatologic surgery in the office to remove your mole. 

Moles are usually noncancerous, but they do warrant watching. If you need to evaluate a mole, call the Hobart K. Richey, MD, PA, office or click on the online booking link now.