If you’re researching moles, then you may be trying to identify whether a skin lesion is an atypical mole (also known as a dysplastic nevus) or melanoma. If so, you’ve come to the right place. Overall, the best advice we can give when identifying an atypical mole vs melanoma is twofold. One, it’s important to know your skin. Two, schedule an appointment with your dermatologist if you’re ever unsure about a mole.
Now, let’s dive in to learn more about an atypical mole vs. melanoma.
What is an Atypical Mole?
Dysplastic nevi describe moles that are irregular-looking, meaning either the mole is not symmetrical or it is more than one color. These “atypical” aspects of a dysplastic nevus are even more visible under a microscope. Atypical moles are not limited to areas of your skin that are often exposed to the sun; they can occur on any area of your body.
Because atypical moles vary in appearance, it can sometimes be hard to tell if a lesion is merely an atypical mole or if it’s something more serious, like melanoma. That’s why it’s important to know your skin and schedule an appointment with your dermatologist if you have any concerns.
Should I Be Worried About an Atypical Mole?
An atypical mole is not necessarily something to be concerned about. Just because a mole is atypical does not mean it is cancerous. However, if you have more than 10 atypical moles, your chances of developing melanoma are 12 times higher. So even though an atypical mole may not be a cause for concern, it’s still important to monitor your moles with monthly self skin checks and an annual skin cancer screening.
Both annual skin cancer screenings and at-home skin checks can help you identify new skin growths and tell the difference between a dysplastic nevus vs melanoma, as well as recognize any changes in growths that you already have. Self-skin exams are recommended, but in-office screenings do have additional important benefits, like helping you check areas that are hard to see, such as your back and head. Your dermatologist will also be better equipped to identify more concerning growths.
Do All Atypical Moles Turn Into Melanoma?
No, most atypical moles are benign and do not turn into melanoma, but having these kinds of moles are a risk factor for melanoma. Your risk is even higher if you have atypical moles and a family history of melanoma. Some people opt to have their atypical moles removed because of the risk factors associated with atypical moles. Determining the stage of the atypical mole may also help inform whether the dysplastic nevus should be removed.
Dysplastic Nevus Stages
If your dermatologist identifies an atypical mole, they will be able to help categorize it as mild, moderate, or severe after a biopsy. Mild atypical moles, which show only minor differences from regular moles, do not usually need to be removed, although they should be monitored over time. Moderate atypical moles are usually larger and may show signs of color variation; these may or may not be removed. Finally, severe atypical moles, which often show irregular edges, are more of a risk factor and will need to be removed completely.
Are Dysplastic Nevi More Common Than Melanoma?
Yes, atypical moles are more common than melanoma. Approximately 1 in 10 people in the US have a dysplastic nevus somewhere on their body. Meanwhile, only 1 in 38 people in the US will develop melanoma.
How Can You Tell the Difference Between an Atypical Mole vs Melanoma?
If you’ve read any of our blogs on moles, then you know we’re going to recommend the ABCDEs as your first response to identifying if your atypical mole may be melanoma. If you’re not familiar with the ABCDEs, we’ll break it down:
- Asymmetry: The mole can be “split down the middle” and both halves will look different.
- Border: The mole’s borders are notched, scalloped, or uneven.
- Color: The mole has changed color and may have become red, blue, or white.
- Diameter and Dark: The mole is larger than ¼ of an inch and/or is darker than your other moles.
- Evolving: The mole has changed in shape, color, or size. New symptoms, such as bleeding or itching, have appeared.
If your mole falls under any of the above or if you’re unsure, schedule an appointment with your dermatologist.
Atypical Mole Removal
Although dysplastic nevi are not melanoma, they’re often removed as they can be confused with melanoma, or melanoma may develop from the atypical mole. Seeing a board-certified dermatologist to remove an atypical mole is best, as they are expertly trained to help control infection risk, minimize scarring, and prevent loss of movement due to scarring.
Your dermatologist will choose one of the three different types of atypical mole removal. Each process is different and your dermatologist can help you choose which removal option is best for your situation. Even though the methods are different, the first step for each method is the same: the mole and the surrounding skin is numbed to prepare for the removal.
Once the area is numbed, one of the following three removal methods are used:
- Shave biopsy: The mole and surrounding skin is shaved off using a blade.
- Punch biopsy: The mole is “punched” out using a special tool.
- Scalpel removal: The mole and surrounding skin is removed using a scalpel. Stitches are used in this method to aid the healing process.
Removing atypical moles is low-risk, but there is a chance that scarring may occur. Properly caring for the wound will help minimize the risk of scarring. Proper care includes keeping the area clean, limiting how much you stretch the skin, and avoiding the sun until the wound heals.
Talk to Your Dermatologist
If you’re visiting your dermatologist to determine if a skin growth is an atypical mole vs melanoma, you may be a bit stressed. So, we’ve collected a few tips to help you get the most out of your appointment, as well as remembering what your dermatologist recommends.
- Let your dermatologist know how much information you want. Do you want the minimum: the treatment options? Or do you want all of the details? Discussing this before getting your results can help you ease your stress early on in the appointment.
- Give honest answers to your dermatologist. Inform your doctor of your habits (drinking, smoking, tanning), as well as any supplements, herbs, etc. that you take, whether you take them occasionally or regularly.
- Bring a laptop or notepad to your appointment so you can write down what you and your dermatologist discuss. This way, you can remember everything about your appointment once you’re home.
- Bring a family member or close friend for emotional support and as an extra set of ears (if allowable in your office). If they’re familiar with your situation, they may ask questions that you hadn’t thought of.
If you are interested in scheduling an appointment for your dermatologist to examine your dysplastic nevus, you can contact our offices in the greater Pittsburgh area by filling out a form or calling us at 412-429-2570. You can also follow us on Facebook to see what’s new in the world of dermatology.