Mole

What are moles?

Moles are a common area of pigmented skin on your body that appears as small, dark brown, oval or round spots. They are the result of pigmented cells clustering together. Most adults have 10-40 moles on their skin, and most of them are harmless.

Sometimes moles fade away on their own, but sometimes they change shape and color, and could become cancerous. Most moles are less than one-quarter of an inch in diameter.

When should I be concerned about a mole?

A good way to remember how to determine if a mole could be skin cancer is ABCDE. “A” means asymmetrical shape, as in one-half of the mole looks different from the other half. “B” is for the border of your moles. If you have a mole with an irregular border or a scalloped edge, it could be a sign that you need to have it checked by a dermatologist.

“C” is for the color of your moles. If you notice a mole has changed color or has uneven colors, it could be a problem. “D” stands for the diameter of the mole. Is it larger than a pencil eraser?

“E” is for evolving. Do you have a mole that’s changed shape, size, or color? If you notice a mole that continues to evolve into different shapes or sizes, or it becomes itchy or begins to bleed, make an appointment with one of the knowledgeable dermatologists at Manhattan Dermatology.

How do the doctors diagnose abnormal moles?

When you come in for an appointment regarding a suspicious mole, your dermatologist may recommend a biopsy to evaluate the cells for signs of skin cancer. Sometimes an abnormal mole can be an indication of melanoma — the most serious form of skin cancer. If the biopsy results show abnormalities, your dermatologist may remove the mole surgically.

In many cases, the medical or surgical removal of a mole takes place in the office, as an outpatient procedure, so you’re free to go home afterward. If there’s cause for concern, the team at Manhattan Dermatology creates a customized treatment plan to ensure that abnormal moles and cancerous cells are taken care of using state-of-the-art treatment protocol and technology.

If you’re concerned about a mole, don’t wait to call for an appointment. The sooner you seek medical attention, the better chances you have that it won’t turn into a more serious condition. You can also use the online booking tool.

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