Moles: When to Worry About Skin Changes

Issues related to moles?

Hello Dr.
Hong, thank you very much for your continued patience in answering my questions.
I have a mole on the side of my nose that has been with me since childhood.
It is dark, slightly raised, and measures only 0.3 mm.
Recently, I became aware of reports about melanoma, so I went to a general outpatient clinic for an initial examination.
However, the doctor looked at it with a magnifying glass and mentioned that the edges of the mole are not very regular, but did not specify whether it is benign or malignant, nor did they refer me to a dermatologist.
I have a few questions for you: 1.
Since this mole has been with me since birth and has not changed much over the years, and it is not painful or itchy, what is the likelihood of it becoming malignant? 2.
Is it possible for the edges of a mole to change as a person grows and their skin stretches? Attached is a photo for your reference.
Thank you, doctor.
https://ibb.co/TPdCzR5

Zong jue de zi ji you bing shi bu shi yi zhong bing, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/13

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello,
1.
If there has been no change, the likelihood of it becoming malignant is low.

2.
Yes, it can change due to skin stretching.
Based on your picture, although the edges are slightly irregular, the outline is clear, and it should just be an ordinary mole.
I recommend that you seek medical attention only if it significantly enlarges, becomes increasingly irregular in shape, or shows any discharge.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2021/09/13

More Info

When it comes to understanding moles and when to be concerned about changes in your skin, it’s essential to consider several factors, including the characteristics of the mole itself and any changes that may occur over time.
Firstly, it’s important to note that moles, or nevi, are common skin growths that can appear anywhere on the body. Most moles are benign and do not pose any health risks. However, certain changes in a mole's appearance can indicate potential issues, such as the development of melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer.
1. Stability of the Mole: You mentioned that the mole on your nose has been present since birth and has not changed significantly over the years. This stability is generally a good sign. Moles that remain unchanged in size, color, and texture over time are less likely to be malignant. However, it’s crucial to monitor any changes, as even benign moles can occasionally undergo transformations.

2. Characteristics of the Mole: The fact that the mole has an irregular border is something to keep an eye on. According to the ABCDE rule for melanoma detection:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.

- Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.

- Color: The color is not uniform and may include shades of brown, black, or even red, white, or blue.

- Diameter: The mole is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).

- Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color.

If your mole exhibits any of these characteristics, especially changes over time, it would be prudent to consult a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation.

3. Growth and Skin Changes: As you grow, your skin does stretch, and this can affect the appearance of moles. It is not uncommon for moles to change slightly in size or shape due to natural growth processes. However, significant changes, especially those that involve irregular borders or color variations, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

4. When to Seek Help: If you notice any of the following changes in your mole, it’s essential to seek medical advice:
- Changes in size, shape, or color.

- The mole becomes itchy, painful, or starts to bleed.

- New moles appear after the age of 30.

- Any mole that looks different from your other moles (often referred to as the "ugly duckling" sign).

In conclusion, while your mole may not currently show alarming signs, it’s wise to remain vigilant and consult a dermatologist if you have any concerns. Regular skin checks, especially if you have a family history of skin cancer or other risk factors, can help in early detection and treatment of potential issues. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to skin health.

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