Moles: Signs of Melanoma and When to Seek Help

Mole

I have a mole on my neck that I've had since I was very young, but a few days ago it suddenly started bleeding.
I heard from a classmate that this could be a sign of a change, and I also found online that it might be melanoma.
Doctor, if it is melanoma, what symptoms might I experience? Are there any solutions? Thank you.

Xiao Mei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/12/05

Dr. Liao Wenyu reply Dermatology

If you have any questions, it is recommended that you visit the outpatient clinic for consultation.
If a biopsy is necessary, the physician will arrange for the biopsy examination.

Reply Date: 2002/12/05

More Info

Moles, or nevi, are common skin growths that can vary in color, shape, and size. While most moles are benign, changes in their appearance can sometimes indicate a more serious condition, such as melanoma, which is a type of skin cancer. It’s crucial to be aware of the signs of melanoma and when to seek medical attention.

Signs of Melanoma
1. Asymmetry: If you draw a line through the mole, the two halves do not match in size, shape, or color.

2. Border Irregularity: Melanomas often have uneven, scalloped, or notched edges, unlike benign moles which typically have smooth, even borders.

3. Color Variation: A mole that has multiple colors (shades of brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue) is more concerning than one that is uniform in color.

4. Diameter: Melanomas are usually larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser), but they can be smaller when first detected.

5. Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or elevation of a mole, or any new symptom such as bleeding, itching, or crusting, is a warning sign.

In your case, the fact that your mole suddenly started bleeding is particularly concerning. Bleeding can indicate that the mole is changing, which may suggest malignancy. Other symptoms to watch for include persistent itching, tenderness, or the formation of a scab that does not heal.

When to Seek Help
If you notice any of the above signs, especially changes in an existing mole or the development of a new mole that exhibits these characteristics, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. A dermatologist is best equipped to evaluate skin lesions and can perform a biopsy if necessary to determine whether the mole is cancerous.

Diagnosis and Treatment
If melanoma is suspected, the dermatologist will likely perform a skin examination and may recommend a biopsy, where a small sample of the mole is removed and examined under a microscope. If melanoma is diagnosed, treatment options may include:
- Surgical Excision: The primary treatment for melanoma is surgical removal of the tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue.

- Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: This procedure checks if the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.

- Immunotherapy: This treatment helps your immune system fight cancer.

- Targeted Therapy: For certain types of melanoma, targeted drugs can be effective.

- Chemotherapy: This may be used in advanced cases.

Prevention and Monitoring
Regular skin checks are vital, especially if you have a family history of skin cancer or numerous moles. Protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds can reduce your risk of developing melanoma.

In summary, while many moles are harmless, any changes in a mole's appearance, especially bleeding, warrant immediate medical attention. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment and better outcomes. If you have concerns about your mole, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.

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