What kind of moles should i be worried about

Moles can be raised off the skin or flat. There is a huge variety in the types of moles that a person can have.

Moles are classified generally into the following categories:. It is important to consult your doctor about any suspicious moles, as these lesions may represent malignant melanoma, a life-threatening type of skin cancer. Examine your skin every month or two to look for any new or changing moles.

If you have a family history of atypical moles or skin cancer or you have numerous moles, you may benefit from seeing a dermatologist for regular skin checks.

If you notice any of the following, consult your doctor or dermatologist:. A for asymmetry: A mole in which one half of the mole does not look like the other half. New moles: A new mole that develops, especially if it appears after your 30s. Most moles are harmless. However, if your dermatologist is concerned about one of your moles or you want a mole removed, this can usually be done easily in the clinic.

We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. The National Cancer Institute predicts that over 91, new cases of melanoma will be diagnosed in , and that it will claim about 9, lives. The good news is that most skin cancers are highly treatable when detected early , says dermatologist Christine Poblete-Lopez, MD.

If any moles look worrisome, your dermatologist will choose just one to sample for study under the microscope. If any lesion on your skin has one or more ABCDE traits — or if it bleeds, scabs, comes and goes, or refuses to heal — see a dermatologist promptly. You should get an appointment within 2 weeks. The main treatment for melanoma is surgery to remove the mole. Most moles are harmless. Harmless moles are not usually treated on the NHS.

If the mole has more than one color, get it looked at. Moles smaller than the diameter of a pencil eraser are less likely to be cancer. If a mole is bigger than a pencil eraser, it is not necessarily cancerous, but it should be evaluated. However, if any mole on your skin shows signs of change, that can indicate a problem. A change in size or color for example might be the only sign that it is cancerous.

Please take the time during your next check up to have a total body skin exam. If your primary care physician does not feel comfortable evaluating your skin, request a referral to a dermatologist who can check your skin for abnormal moles.