Should You Worry About Changing Moles? When to Seek Medical Advice - Dermatology

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When it comes to changes in moles, it is essential to be vigilant and proactive about your skin health. Moles, or nevi, are common skin growths that can appear anywhere on the body. While most moles are benign, changes in their appearance can sometimes indicate a more serious condition, such as melanoma, a type of skin cancer.
Based on your description, you have a coffee-colored mole on your left middle finger that has been present for about 20 years. You noted that the edges of the mole are irregular, it has slightly increased in size, and the surrounding area has begun to darken. These changes are concerning and warrant further evaluation by a healthcare professional.

The ABCDE rule is a helpful guideline for assessing moles:
- Asymmetry: If you draw a line through the mole, and the two halves do not match, it may be a cause for concern.

- Border: Moles with irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges are more likely to be problematic.

- Color: A variety of colors (brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue) within the same mole can be a warning sign.

- Diameter: Moles larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) should be examined, although some melanomas can be smaller.

- Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or elevation, or any new symptom such as bleeding, itching, or crusting, is a reason to seek medical advice.

Given that your mole has irregular borders, has increased in size, and has changed color, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist as soon as possible. They may perform a physical examination and, if necessary, a biopsy to determine whether the mole is benign or malignant.

Additionally, you mentioned that you have developed a new mole on your thumb, which is also a reason to consult a healthcare professional. While not all new moles are dangerous, any new growth should be monitored, especially if it exhibits any of the concerning features outlined above.

It's understandable to feel anxious about these changes, but being proactive about your health is the best course of action. Dermatologists are trained to evaluate skin lesions and can provide you with peace of mind or necessary treatment if needed.
In summary, you should definitely seek medical advice regarding the changes in your existing mole and the new mole on your thumb. Early detection is crucial in the management of skin cancer, and a dermatologist will be able to provide you with the appropriate care and guidance. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.