Moles
A mole can be a charming facial feature, an unsightly distraction, or a cause for alarm. We can help you tell the
difference.
Conditions
Normal moles You may have normal moles (normal nevi) that differ in size, shape, and color. Some may have hair. They may change appearance slowly over time or even disappear entirely. Moles can appear anywhere on the skin:
on your scalp, between your fingers and toes, on the soles of your feet or palms of your hands, even under your nails.
A normal mole is:
A single color. Brown is most common, but moles may be tan, black, red, pink, blue, skin tone, or even colorless.
Round
Flat or slightly raised
Consistent in appearance from month to month
Atypical moles Also known as atypical nevi or dysplastic nevi, these moles may appear anywhere on the body— often on the torso, scalp, head, and neck but rarely on the face. They may look like melanoma but are not cancerous:
More than one color
Asymmetrical shape
Larger than 1/4 inch in diameter
Although benign, atypical moles indicate an increased risk of developing the skin cancer melanoma. You have a
greater chance of developing melanoma at an early age if you have:
Four or more atypical moles
A personal or immediate family history of melanoma
These individuals have all the characteristics" sentence should end with: "of Atypical Mole Syndrome plus one or more first- or second-degree relatives who have had melanoma.
Atypical Mole Syndrome and Familial Atypical Multiple Mole Melanoma Syndrome For some
people, the number and characteristics of their moles make them at exceptionally high risk of developing melanoma. Those with "Classic" Atypical Mole Syndrome have:
100 or more moles
One or more moles 1/3 inch in diameter or larger
One more more atypical moles
An even higher-risk group includes those with Familial Atypical Multiple Mole Melanoma Syndrome (FAMMM). These
individuals have all the characteristics
The Treatment
Not all moles need treatment. If you think a mole is unsightly or uncomfortable, or if we suspect the possibility of skin
cancer, we can remove the mole in one of two ways:
Surgical shave After numbing the area, the doctor uses a small blade to cut around and under the mole. This
procedure is usually performed on smaller moles and does not require sutures.
Surgical excision The doctor cuts out the mole and some surrounding tissue with a scalpel or punch device, then
closes the incision with sutures. If we suspect cancer, we will analyze the mole in our in-house lab. If the sample tests
positive, we can treat you for skin cancer.
If a mole grows back it could be a sign of skin cancer. Make an appointment with us immediately.
Prevention, Monitoring
Whether or not your moles put you in a high-risk category for skin cancer, you should practice responsible sun
protection and early skin cancer detection techniques.
Annual cancer screening Have us perform a professional, full-body skin cancer screening at least once a year.
Make your appointment now.
Monthly self-exams Examine your skin at least once a month. If you see a new, rapidly growing spot or a growth
that is changing rapidly, itching, or bleeding for two weeks, call us immediately. Get a free self-exam worksheet.
Sun safety Protect your skin from the sun:
Stay out of the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Apply broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your entire body 30 minutes before
going outside. For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or
higher. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or heavy sweating.
Do not burn, tan, or use tanning booths.
Keep newborns out of the sun. Use sunscreen on babies over the age of six months.
For More Information
American Academy of Dermatology: Moles
Skin Cancer Foundation: Atypical Moles
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William M. Ramsdell, MD Dermatologist, Medical Director 
