Moles

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Almost everyone has moles. And those with lighter skin tend to have more. Most are nothing to worry about, but some moles can develop into skin cancer. Melanoma, the deadliest type of skin cancer, can develop in or near a mole.

Types of Moles

• Congenital Mole: This is the type of mole that a person is born with. It’s also called a congenital nevus. Only about one person in 100 is born with one or more moles. Those with a large/giant congenital more (larger than 20 cm) have a higher risk of becoming a melanoma.
• Atypical Mole: Also called dysplastic nevi, these are moles that are larger than a pencil eraser and irregular in shape. They can also have an uneven color with a mix of tan, brown, red or pink coloration. Often, these run in families, but anyone can get them. People with atypical moles have a greater chance of developing melanoma. AAD pamphlet on Atypical Nevus
• Acquired Mole: These are moles that show up at some point after birth, and are generally not a problem. People who have more than 50-100 acquired moles are, however, at a greater risk for developing melanoma than those with less.

Should I see a dermatologist?

If you are worried about a mole, it has one or more of the ABCDEs, or is new and looks unusual, you should see a dermatologist. Even though most moles are not cancerous, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. A dermatologist can take a biopsy if the mole concerns them too. A microscopic view of the mole will let them know if its cancerous or not.

Dr. Hopp, in addition to be a certified dermatologist, is also a dermatopathologist. All the biopsies taken in our office are examined under a microscope by Dr. Hopp who determines if they are cancerous or not. And in questionable cases, the slides will be sent out to the University of Washington for a second opinion.

Mole Removal

Dermatologists will remove a mole if skin cancer is suspected, if it becomes a nuisance or for cosmetic reasons if the patient finds it unattractive.

Surgical excision, where a mole is cut out and the skin is stitched closed, is often used. Depending on size and depth, moles can also be shaved off with a razor blade. Sometimes local anesthesia is used prior to removing a mole. Sometimes all that’s necessary is some ice applied to the area first.

Never attempt to remove a mole yourself. If the mole is cancerous, much of it could be left behind and might spread. There is also the possibility of infection or unnecessary injury.

If you have a mole removed, and it later grows back, you should make an appointment to see your dermatologist immediately.