Moles

Benign nevi, commonly known as moles, are skin growths that result from clusters of pigmented cells called melanocytes. Most people have between 10 and 40 moles, which can appear anywhere on the body. They are usually brown or black but can vary in color and size. Benign moles are typically uniform in color, have smooth borders, can be flat or raised, and remain consistent over time.

Dysplastic nevi are atypical moles that look different from common benign moles and have irregular features under the microscope. They tend to be larger, have irregular borders, and can vary in color. While dysplastic nevi are generally benign, having them can increase your risk of developing melanoma, especially if you have a family history. It’s important to monitor dysplastic nevi for any changes and have them evaluated by a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Eliades.

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops in melanocytes. While it is less common than basal and squamous cell carcinomas, melanoma is more dangerous because it can spread to other body parts if not detected early. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a positive outcome.

To identify potential melanomas, there are tools you can use during self-skin examinations to identify moles that may be concerning.

ABCDEs of Melanoma:

• A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other.
• B – Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.
• C – Color: Uneven or multiple colors, including shades of brown, black, pink, red, white, or blue.
• D – Diameter: Larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser)
• E – Evolving: Changes in size, shape, color, elevation, or new symptoms like bleeding, itching, or crusting.

Ugly duckling sign:

• An ugly duckling mole looks, unlike any other moles you have. A larger and irregularly shaped mole is less concerning if you have multiple moles that look just like it.

If you notice any new or unusual spots or changes in an existing mole, it is important to have it evaluated by a board-certified dermatologist.

Regular full skin checks are key to the early detection of skin cancer, including melanoma. During a skin exam, a dermatologist thoroughly inspects your skin from head to toe, looking for any suspicious moles or lesions.

Not everyone needs a full skin check every year, but it may be recommended if you have risk factors that increase your risk of skin cancer, including:

• Fair Skin: Individuals with light skin that burns easily.
• Family History: A family history of melanoma or atypical moles.
• Personal History: Previous skin cancer diagnosis or presence of dysplastic nevi.
• Sun Exposure: Significant history of sunburns or excessive UV exposure.
• Multiple Moles: Many moles (more than 50) or large moles. 

Between professional skin checks, performing regular self-examinations can help you detect changes early. Use a full-length mirror and a hand-held mirror to examine all body areas, including hard-to-see places like the scalp, soles of the feet, and between the toes.