Is My Mole Turning Malignant? Signs to Watch For

Mole exudation, crusting, and hair loss?

Hello Dr.
Wu, I have a mole that has been losing hair, oozing, forming a scab, and has a vibrating sensation.
Could this be a sign of malignancy? Thank you!

mìmì, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/03/03

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

To determine whether a mole has undergone any changes, it is essential to visually examine the lesion.
It is recommended that you consult a nearby dermatologist for an evaluation.

Reply Date: 2024/03/03

More Info

When it comes to moles and skin lesions, it's essential to be vigilant about any changes that may indicate malignancy. The signs you mentioned—hair loss, oozing, crusting, and a vibrating sensation—are concerning and warrant further evaluation by a healthcare professional.
Moles, or nevi, can be benign, but they can also undergo changes that may suggest the development of melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. The ABCDE rule is a helpful guideline for assessing moles and identifying potential warning signs of melanoma:
1. Asymmetry: If you draw a line through the mole, and the two halves do not match, it may be a sign of malignancy.

2. Border: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges can indicate a problem.

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

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

5. Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or elevation, or any new symptom such as bleeding, itching, or crusting, is a cause for concern.

In your case, the symptoms you describe—especially the oozing and crusting—are particularly alarming. These could indicate inflammation or infection, but they can also be signs of a malignant transformation. The "vibrating" sensation is less common and could be related to nerve involvement or irritation in the area.

It's crucial to consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider as soon as possible for a thorough examination. They may perform a dermatoscopic evaluation, which allows for a closer look at the mole's structure, and if necessary, a biopsy to determine if the mole is malignant.

In addition to the ABCDE criteria, other factors can influence the risk of a mole turning malignant, including:
- Family History: A family history of melanoma or other skin cancers increases your risk.

- Skin Type: Individuals with fair skin, light hair, and light eyes are at a higher risk.

- Sun Exposure: A history of excessive sun exposure or sunburns, especially in childhood, can increase the risk of melanoma.

- Number of Moles: Having many moles (more than 50) can also increase the risk of developing melanoma.

If melanoma is diagnosed, treatment options may include surgical excision, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, depending on the stage of the cancer. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so timely evaluation is essential.

In summary, while not all changes in moles indicate malignancy, the symptoms you describe are concerning and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Early intervention can make a significant difference in outcomes, so do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

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