Unusual Moles: Causes and When to Seek Help

My mole looks unusual?

Hello: I discovered that one of my moles (congenital) has formed a scab.
After I picked off the scab, it started to bleed again.
I'm not sure what the reason is.

vivian, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/03/28

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology

If you have moles on your body that exhibit any of the following conditions, you should seek help from a dermatologist for further examination: 1.
Size: The diameter of the mole is increasing.
2.
Shape: Asymmetry, where one half of the mole looks different from the other half.
3.
Color: The color of the mole is inconsistent, such as having black, brown, and tan mixed together.
4.
Border: The edges of the mole are irregular, with protrusions or indentations.
Additionally, if there is itching, bleeding, or ulceration, you should seek immediate evaluation; moles located on the palms, soles, and near the nails should be examined directly by a dermatologist.

Reply Date: 2001/03/28

More Info

When it comes to unusual moles or skin lesions, it is essential to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical attention. The situation you described, where you have a mole that has scabbed over and continues to bleed after being picked at, raises several important considerations.

Firstly, it is crucial to recognize that moles, or nevi, are common skin growths that can vary in color, size, and shape. Most moles are benign and do not pose any health risks. However, changes in a mole's appearance, such as bleeding, scabbing, or changes in color or size, can be concerning and warrant further evaluation.

The act of picking at a mole can lead to irritation, inflammation, and even infection, which may explain the bleeding you are experiencing. When a mole is traumatized, it can become inflamed and may bleed as a result. However, if the mole was already abnormal or atypical, the trauma could exacerbate an underlying issue.

There are several potential causes for the changes you are observing in your mole:
1. Benign Changes: Sometimes, moles can undergo benign changes due to friction, irritation, or hormonal changes. These changes may result in temporary scabbing or bleeding.

2. Infection: If the mole has been picked at, it may become infected, leading to redness, swelling, and discharge. An infection can cause the mole to bleed and may require treatment with antibiotics.

3. Dysplastic Nevi: These are atypical moles that may have irregular borders and varied colors. They can sometimes bleed or change in appearance and may require monitoring or biopsy to rule out melanoma.

4. Melanoma: This is a type of skin cancer that can arise from existing moles or appear as new lesions. Melanoma can present with changes in color, size, shape, and can bleed. If you notice any of these signs, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Given your situation, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider for a thorough examination of the mole. They may perform a dermatoscopic examination to assess the mole's characteristics more closely. If there are any concerning features, they may recommend a biopsy to determine if there are any malignant cells present.

In summary, while the bleeding from your mole could be due to benign causes such as irritation or infection, it is essential to err on the side of caution. Any changes in a mole's appearance, especially if accompanied by bleeding, should be evaluated by a medical professional. Early detection and intervention are key in managing skin lesions effectively, particularly when it comes to conditions like melanoma. Therefore, I strongly encourage you to seek medical advice as soon as possible to ensure your health and peace of mind.

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