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MOLES
FAQ on Moles
Everyone has moles in one form or another. Moles can appear anywhere on the body. People grow moles in childhood and on into adulthood. The average person usually has
30 to 40 moles.
 Moles originate from pigment cells in the skin called melanocytes. Normal appearing moles are generally small with tan or brown pigmentation with symmetrical
borders. Moles can vary in size and appearance with some being flat, raised or even hairy. Moles may change as a person ages, often becoming raised or lighter in color. They may even disappear with
advancing age.
Approximately 1% of the population is born with moles (congenital nevi). These moles have an increased risk of developing skin cancer during a
person’s lifetime. A congenital nevus is of concern when it shows asymmetry, irregular borders, colors of gray, black, red or white, and a size of 6mm or greater in diameter.
Atypical Moles:
 Atypical moles, also called dysplastic nevi, are moles that are irregular in shape, border, color or size. The mnemonic ABCD has been established to identify
concerning characteristics of moles.
A - asymmetry
B - irregular borders
C - colors of gray, blue, black, red, and white
D - diameter greater than 6 mm (the size of a pencil eraser)
Atypical or dysplastic nevi should be followed on a regular basis. If a mole changes or shows irregular characteristics, it should be examined
immediately by your dermatologist.
Freckles:
Freckles, medically called ephelides, are dark spots  on sun-exposed skin that seem to come and go. These areas fade in the winter and are more pronounced during the summer.
People with fair skin, and red or blonde hair, tend to freckle most easily. Freckles are benign (noncancerous) and tend to serve as a marker of skin sensitivity and possible sun damage.
Sun Spots:
 Sun spots, medically called lentigines, look like freckles; however, they never fade or change in size or location. When located on sun-exposed skin, they are
called solar lentigines. These areas are benign and may be treated for cosmetic reasons.
Seborrheic Keratoses:
 Second to moles, this is the most common growth in the skin. Seborrheic keratoses are invariably confused with moles. Many times they have a
“stuck-on” or “warty” appearance. These growths are seen on all areas of the skin except the palms and soles. Like moles, they present in a variety of
shapes, sizes and colors. These growths differ from moles in that their composition is more of a thickening of the skin than a predominance of pigment cells (melanocytes). Why seborrheic keratoses
develop is unclear; however, there does appear to be genetic influence. These lesions are benign; however, they can appear worrisome and should be
examined by your dermatologist if there are changes in size, color or location.
Recommendations:
Moles, in general, should be watched on a monthly basis for change. If a person has atypical or dysplastic appearing moles, he or she should be
followed by a dermatologist, as there is an increased risk for skin cancer. Sun protection is especially important to prevent sun damage to moles as well as surrounding skin.
Shaving or rubbing will not cause a mole to become cancerous. If a mole changes in size, shape, color, or bleeds, itches or becomes painful, it should
be examined. A small scar usually results from mole removal.
Bleaching agents on the skin can often lighten freckles and sunspots. Sunscreen is essential, as sun exposure will stimulate these areas to
re-pigment. Bleaching agents and a sunscreen of SPF 15 or greater must be applied twice daily to prevent re-pigmentation.
Finally, seborrheic keratoses may be removed for cosmetic reasons. This should be discussed with your dermatologist, as small scars may result from removal.
Your dermatologist should be consulted immediately if any pigmented area shows signs of asymmetry, irregular borders, colors of gray, black, red, blue
and white, or a diameter greater than 6 mm.
FAQ on Moles
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