What are Moles?
A mole is a gathering of melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells found near the skin’s surface. These moles can manifest in various shades, including black, brown, or flesh-coloured, and can appear anywhere on the skin.
Typically emerging within a person’s first 25 years of life, moles are a common occurrence. While most individuals have a few moles, some may develop 40 or more by adulthood. Over time, moles may undergo colour changes, elevation, or gradual fading. Although many moles are benign, certain types can elevate the risk of melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer.
Types of Moles
Atypical Moles:
Also known as dysplastic nevi, these moles may resemble melanoma due to irregular shape, mixed colours, larger size, and specific locations.
Consultation with a dermatologist is vital for evaluation if you have atypical moles, as they increase melanoma risk, especially with multiple occurrences or a family history of the condition.
Congenital Moles:
Roughly 1 in 100 people are born with a mole, known as a congenital mole. These can vary in size from small to large and can elevate melanoma risk.
Spitz Nevus:
Resembling melanoma, a Spitz nevus mole necessitates a biopsy to rule out malignancy. It is often pink and raised, occasionally with an oozing opening.
Acquired Moles:
These common moles appear after birth and can number up to 40 for individuals with lighter skin tones. Having over 50 acquired moles increases melanoma risk.
Causes of Moles
Moles emerge when melanocytes cluster together instead of spreading evenly. Factors like sun exposure, pregnancy, and adolescence can cause moles to darken.
Risk Factors for Moles
Consult a doctor if a mole becomes itchy or bleeds, or if it’s new or undergoing colour, size, or shape changes. Suspicious moles may require medical evaluation.
Symptoms of Moles
Moles can appear brown, black, red, pink, blue, skin-toned, tan, or colourless. Characteristics include being round, slightly raised or flat, and maintaining a relatively consistent appearance.
Diagnosis of Moles
Dermatologists can diagnose moles through physical examination. Suspicious moles may require tissue biopsies, which are examined for abnormalities under a microscope.
Treatments for Moles
While most moles don’t require treatment, contact a doctor if a mole has characteristics like those of skin cancer, causes irritation, or is in a prominent or bothersome location.
Removal Techniques Include:
Surgical Excision:
The mole is entirely removed by cutting it out. The tissue may undergo laboratory analysis for cancerous cells.
Surgical Shave:
A surgical blade is used to remove the mole, with tissue analysis to detect cancer.
Do not attempt self-removal of moles to avoid infection, scarring, or undetected cancer. Once removed, moles typically do not return. If they do, consult a dermatologist promptly to assess potential malignancy.