Mole (Nevus)
Moles are colored spots on the skin. The are
usually harmless, however, in some people, a mole can become a
malignant mole called dysplastic nevus (plural
nevi).
Symptoms of Regular and Malignant Moles
The symptoms of regular moles are:
- Round or symmetrical in shape, with a sharply defined border
- Flesh tones, deep brown or black in color
- Flat or raised in profile
- May increase in size as the person ages
- Usually remains the same number by young adulthood
The symptoms of malignant moles are:
- Irregular in shape, with hazy borders
- Mottled colors
- Large in size
- Increase in numbers as the person ages
What are the warning signs that a regular mole is turning into a
malignant one?
Congenital nevi or moles that you are born with,
are more prone to becoming a deadly skin cancer called melanoma.
However, all moles have the potential of becoming malignant.
You should check your moles every month for the following warning
signs:
- Asymmetrical shape
- Border becoming hazy or irregular
- Color becoming mottled or irregular
- Diameter becoming larger than a pencil eraser
Your doctor will perform a biospy on moles with any of the "ABCD"
warning signs above.
How Can Moles Be Removed?
In most people, moles remain harmless throughout life - however,
people who do not like their appearance may get moles removed
in a cosmetic procedure called shave excision.
Moles that turn into malignant cancer need to be surgically removed.