the Risks of Moles: When to Seek Dermatological Advice

Facial moles?

Hello Dr.
Wu, I have recently noticed reports about melanoma, so I checked my body and found two relatively large moles, both around 0.3 cm.
The first mole is located on the left side of my nose and has been with me since birth; it is slightly raised.
The outpatient physician mentioned that the edges are somewhat irregular but did not specify whether it is benign or malignant.
The second mole is on my arm and has also been present since middle school; it is also slightly raised.

I would like to ask you, as I am 21 years old and these two moles have not changed much over the years, and there is no genetic history of skin diseases in my family, what is the likelihood of them becoming malignant, especially since they are located on my face and arm?

cherry, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/14

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

The Medical Act stipulates that "a physician shall not administer treatment or prescribe medication without personally examining the patient," and therefore, online diagnosis is also not permissible.
If you are experiencing significant distress, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Reply Date: 2021/09/14

More Info

When it comes to moles, or nevi, understanding their characteristics and potential risks is crucial for maintaining skin health. The concern about melanoma, a type of skin cancer that can arise from moles, is valid, especially given the increasing awareness of skin cancer risks in recent years.
From your description, you have two moles: one on your nose and another on your arm, both measuring around 0.3 cm. The fact that these moles have been stable over the years is a positive sign, as changes in size, shape, or color are often red flags that warrant further investigation. However, the irregular edges of the mole on your nose, as noted by your physician, could be a point of concern.
The ABCDE rule is a helpful guideline for assessing moles:
- Asymmetry: If you draw a line through the mole, the two halves do not match.

- Border: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges.

- Color: A variety of colors (brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue) is present.

- Diameter: Moles larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) are more concerning.

- Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or elevation, or any new symptom such as bleeding, itching, or crusting.

In your case, both moles are relatively small and have not changed significantly over time, which is reassuring. However, the irregular border of the mole on your nose does suggest that it should be monitored closely.
Given that you are 21 years old and have no family history of skin diseases, the risk of melanoma is generally lower, but it is not zero. Melanoma can occur in young adults, and early detection is key to successful treatment. Therefore, it is advisable to have regular skin checks with a dermatologist, especially for moles that have irregular features or are located in visible areas like the face and arms.

If you notice any changes in your moles, such as an increase in size, changes in color, or if they become itchy or bleed, you should seek dermatological advice promptly. Additionally, even if no changes occur, a yearly skin examination by a dermatologist is a good practice, particularly if you have moles that are atypical or if you have a history of sun exposure, which is a significant risk factor for skin cancer.

In summary, while your current assessment suggests that the moles are stable and not immediately concerning, vigilance is essential. Regular monitoring and professional evaluations are the best strategies to ensure your skin health and to catch any potential issues early. If you have any further concerns or notice any changes, do not hesitate to consult a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation.

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