While there are many different types of moles, moles in general are a common form of skin lesions that may seem worrisome in certain cases. For starters, let’s dive into an overview of what moles are and identify the four common types of moles. We’ll then consider when to see your dermatologist about a mole and some general guidelines for staying alert when working to prevent skin cancer.
What are Moles?
Moles are formed when skin cells grow in a cluster. These skin cells are called melanocytes, which give your skin color. The medical terminology for a mole is nevus (plural nevi). Nevi are typically black or brown in color but can darken throughout your lifetime due to exposure to sun or pregnancy.
Moles can be flat or slightly raised. They can appear on any part of the body and can appear as a single mole or a cluster of them. Most adults have between 10-40 moles. While most appear before the age of 25, you can continue to grow moles throughout your life. Some of your moles may even fade away over time. With so many moles all over the body, they can be fairly easy to ignore, and more often than not, there is no reason to be concerned about them. However, it is important to be aware of the common types of moles, so you can better identify anything that could become a health risk.
Four Different Types of Moles
There are 4 main types of moles: congenital moles, dysplastic nevi, acquired nevi, and spitz nevi. Let’s explore the differences between each type of mole.
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Congenital Moles
The first type of moles are congenital moles. Congenital moles (or nevi) are birthmarks, appearing at birth or within the first year of life. Approximately one in 100 people are born with moles, so they are not rare, but not everyone will have congenital moles. Congenital moles can be small or large and most usually remain benign throughout life; however, if you have any larger congenital moles, you may be at a higher risk for melanoma forming later in life. The larger the mole, the greater the risk is of it becoming cancerous; however, most congenital moles are nothing to worry about, especially when monitored frequently.
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Acquired Nevi
The second type of moles are acquired nevi. Unlike congenital moles, these are moles that appear years after birth. It is normal for moles to continue to develop into adulthood, and newly appearing moles are not necessarily at risk to become cancerous. However, if you have 50 or more of these moles, then you may be at a higher risk for melanoma.
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Dysplastic Nevi (Atypical Moles)
The third type of moles are dysplastic nevi. Moles are considered “dysplastic” when they are abnormal in appearance. Dysplastic nevi may be larger in size, have uneven edges, or have an uneven surface. These moles are often unevenly colored or grow in size over time. Dysplastic nevi are one of the common types of moles that can transform into melanoma and should be consistently monitored for changes. If you have a dysplastic nevus that is diagnosed as “severely atypical,” the mole must be removed by a dermatologist.
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Spitz Nevi
Lastly, the fourth type of moles are spitz nevi. Spitz nevi are benign but can be hard to distinguish from melanoma unless your dermatologist performs a biopsy. These moles are often raised, pink, and dome- shaped. You may notice different colors within the mole, such as red, black, and brown. It’s important to know that this type of mole may also bleed or leak pus. You should speak to your dermatologist if you notice this happening.
Simply having moles does not mean you will get skin cancer. However, knowing how to tell when atypical moles may be a sign of skin cancer can help catch early signs of melanoma. Staying aware of your skin and taking action if you notice rapid change in a skin growth is an important step for prevention.
When Should I Make an Appointment with a Dermatologist?
Most types of moles are not a cause for concern; however, it is important to keep an eye on your moles so that you can know when it is time to see your dermatologist. A common way to identify if an atypical mole may be melanoma is following the ABCDEs of moles. When doing a self-screening it is important to note the following:
A – Asymmetry: If your mole is not symmetrical, it may be a sign of cancer.
B – Borders: Jagged borders can be a sign of cancerous moles.
C – Color: Non-cancerous moles are usually a light or dark brown color. Cancerous moles are often multicolored and may include spots of brown, black, white, or other colors.
D – Diameter: Benign moles are typically less than one millimeter in diameter. A mole that is larger can be a sign of melanoma.
E – Evolving: Benign moles typically do not change over time. If your mole changes size or color, make an appointment with your dermatologist.
It’s important to routinely check your moles for changes, but having a professional skin cancer screening completed yearly is the best way to notice early signs of melanoma. A dermatologist can help you keep an eye on moles that may be hard for you to see or questionable moles that may be at-risk for becoming cancerous.
How Do I Prevent Skin Cancer?
Routinely self-checking your moles is a great way to catch the early signs of melanoma, but how can you help prevent skin cancer altogether? There are many ways to protect against skin cancer. We have already mentioned self-monitoring your moles, but what are the others? You have probably heard it before, but it bears repeating: wear your sunscreen! It is also important to refrain from using tanning beds, which can lead to premature aging, increased brown spots, and skin cancer due to damage from the UV radiation. It is also wise to err on the side of covering your skin, no matter what the weather is like, is one of the most effective ways to prevent skin cancer. Don’t forget that UV rays can damage skin year-round, even if the sun is only peeking through the winter clouds.
Whether you are looking to schedule a routine screening of your moles, skin cancer screening, or skin cancer removal in Pittsburgh, Vujevich Dermatology Associates has you covered. Contact one of our offices today for any concerns, questions, or to schedule an appointment with one of our highly trained, board-certified providers.
Vujevich Dermatology Associates offers medical, surgical, cosmetic, and pediatric dermatology from some of the most highly trained physicians and clinicians in the greater Pittsburgh area. You can reach our team at 412-429-2570 or visit our contact page to see all of our locations. You can also follow us on Facebook to see what’s new in the world of dermatology.