Irregular Moles on Children's Feet: Risks and Concerns

Mole on the sole of the foot?

Hello, doctor: My child had irregular black moles on the soles of her feet a few months after birth.
Will these moles grow larger as her feet grow? She is currently ten years old, and the mole on her foot measures approximately 0.6 by 0.3 cm, resembling the shape of a map of Taiwan.
Is there a possibility that it could be a melanoma?

Eunice, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/02/25

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

It is true that moles can change as children grow.
However, melanoma requires clinical examination and cannot be assessed solely through written descriptions.
It is advisable to consult a nearby dermatologist for evaluation and treatment.

Reply Date: 2024/02/25

More Info

When it comes to irregular moles on children's feet, particularly in your case where your daughter has had a non-uniform black mole since she was a few months old, it is essential to approach the situation with caution and awareness. Moles, or nevi, are common in children and can vary in size, shape, and color. However, any changes in these characteristics, especially in a growing child, warrant careful observation and potentially a medical evaluation.

Firstly, it is important to understand that moles can indeed grow as a child grows. This is because the skin expands, and moles can stretch or change in size. However, the shape, color, and texture of the mole are critical factors to monitor. The fact that your daughter’s mole has an irregular shape resembling the outline of Taiwan and measures approximately 0.6 cm by 0.3 cm is noteworthy. Irregularly shaped moles can sometimes be a sign of atypical moles or dysplastic nevi, which have a higher risk of developing into melanoma, a type of skin cancer.

The primary concern with moles is whether they exhibit any of the ABCDE characteristics of melanoma:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.

- 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), although melanomas can be smaller.

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

Given that your daughter’s mole has been present since infancy and has an irregular shape, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or a pediatrician who specializes in dermatology. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend a biopsy if they suspect any malignancy. It is crucial to address your concerns about the possibility of a melanoma or other skin conditions early on, as early detection is key in managing skin cancer effectively.

In addition to the physical characteristics of the mole, consider any other symptoms that may accompany it, such as itching, bleeding, or changes in texture. These could also be indicators of a more serious condition and should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

In summary, while many moles in children are benign and simply part of normal skin development, the irregularity of your daughter’s mole, combined with its persistence since infancy, suggests that it should be evaluated by a medical professional. Regular skin checks and awareness of changes in moles are important practices for maintaining skin health, especially in children. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes, so do not hesitate to seek medical advice for peace of mind and appropriate care.

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