Concerns About Enlarging and Raised Moles: What You Need to Know - Dermatology

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The mole has enlarged and become raised?


Hello Dr.
Wu, I am a middle school student.
Recently, I have been picking at a mole (which is raised), often removing the skin (without bleeding), and the mole has been getting larger (about 0.6 cm).
I would like to ask: 1.
What could happen? 2.
What will happen if I keep picking at it? 3.
Will it continue to grow? 4.
Does this increase the risk of skin cancer? Thank you!

Ian, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/17

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology


1.
Constant picking may lead to infection and inflammation.
2.
You are still a middle school student and are in a period of growth and development; moles can also grow and become larger.
3.
Repeated injury is possible, and it is advisable to stop this behavior.

Reply Date: 2022/08/17

More Info


Hello! It's great that you're being proactive about your health and asking questions regarding your concerns about your mole. Let's break down your questions one by one.

1. What might happen? When you repeatedly pick at a mole, especially one that is raised, you risk causing irritation or inflammation. This can lead to changes in the mole's appearance, such as increased size or color changes. If the mole has become larger (as you mentioned it is about 0.6 cm), it is essential to monitor it closely. Changes in size, shape, or color can be signs that warrant further evaluation by a healthcare professional.

2. What happens if you keep picking at it? Continuously picking at a mole can lead to several issues. It can cause the mole to become inflamed or infected, which may result in pain, redness, or even scarring. Moreover, the act of picking can disrupt the skin barrier, making it more susceptible to infections. If the mole is indeed changing, picking at it may exacerbate the situation and complicate any potential diagnosis.

3. Will it continue to grow? Moles can change over time due to various factors, including hormonal changes, sun exposure, and skin type. While some moles remain stable, others may grow or change. If you notice that your mole is growing, it is crucial to consult a dermatologist. They can assess whether the growth is benign or if it requires further investigation.

4. Does it increase the risk of skin cancer? While not all moles that change in size or appearance are cancerous, changes in moles can be a warning sign of skin cancer, particularly melanoma. The ABCDE rule is a helpful guideline for assessing moles:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn't 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, it is essential to seek medical advice promptly.

In conclusion, I recommend that you stop picking at the mole and schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. They can perform a thorough examination and, if necessary, a biopsy to determine whether the mole is benign or if further action is needed. Early detection is key when it comes to skin cancer, so it's always better to err on the side of caution. Remember, taking care of your skin is an important part of your overall health!

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