Atypical Moles

Introduction to Atypical Moles: Understanding and Monitoring for Skin Cancer Risk

Atypical moles, also known as dysplastic nevi, are moles that differ in appearance from common moles. While everyone has moles on their skin—typically between 10 and 40—atypical moles are distinctive in several ways. Unlike common moles, which are small, round or oval with smooth edges, and consistent in color, atypical moles tend to be:

  • Larger: Often larger than a pencil eraser.
  • Irregular in Shape: They may have an odd or irregular shape, rather than being round.
  • Varied in Color: Atypical moles can display multiple shades, including brown, tan, red, pink, or even black.

Atypical moles can appear anywhere on the body, though they most commonly develop on the back, chest, abdomen, and occasionally on the scalp. These moles often begin to appear during adolescence but can develop throughout adulthood.

Risk of Skin Cancer with Atypical Moles

While most atypical moles are benign, they can carry a higher risk of developing into melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. You may be at greater risk if you have:

  • Numerous moles, particularly if you have four or more atypical moles.
  • A personal history of melanoma.
  • A first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) who has had melanoma.

Because atypical moles have the potential to turn into skin cancer, it’s essential to monitor them for changes.

Monitoring and Diagnosing Atypical Moles

Regular monitoring of atypical moles is crucial. Your dermatologist may use a dermatoscope, a specialized tool, to get a closer look during check-ups. If there’s concern that an atypical mole could be melanoma, a biopsy may be necessary. During the biopsy, your dermatologist will remove part or all of the mole, which will then be examined under a microscope to determine if cancer cells are present.

If a mole is diagnosed as melanoma, treatment will depend on the size, location, and depth of the cancer, as well as your overall health. Treatment options may include surgical removal of the mole and surrounding tissue.

How to Perform Skin Self-Exams

Regular skin self-exams are essential for early detection of skin changes that could indicate melanoma. When checking your skin, be sure to examine all areas, including hard-to-see spots like your back and scalp. You can use the “ABCDE” method as a guide:

  • A for Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
  • B for Border: Edges are irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined.
  • C for Color: Color is not uniform and may include shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue.
  • D for Diameter: Larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
  • E for Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color.

If you notice any moles that fit these criteria, or if a mole changes, itches, or bleeds, you should contact your dermatologist immediately.

Preventing Skin Cancer

Protecting your skin from UV exposure is the most effective way to prevent skin cancer. Here are some key tips:

  • Seek Shade: Especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest.
  • Wear Protective Clothing: Long sleeves, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses.
  • Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all exposed skin, and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
  • Avoid Tanning Beds: UV light from tanning beds increases the risk of skin cancer.

For those with a high number of atypical moles, your dermatologist may recommend additional preventive measures, such as full-body skin exams every three to 12 months and total body photography to track changes over time.