Moles: When to Worry About Changes and Cancer Risks

Please ask your questions regarding moles?

Doctor, if a mole has uneven color, does that indicate a problem? I have two moles on the right side of my waist that I've had since birth (for 16 years).
Today, I noticed that they have grown larger as I've aged.
The larger one is about 0.4 mm in size and has a relatively regular shape (although one is slanted and not perfectly round).
However, the center is slightly raised (both are) and the raised areas are black, while the remaining edges are a lighter shade of brown.
As far as I know, they have always looked like this; the only changes are that they have grown larger and slightly more raised.
Doctor, what specific changes should I look for to determine if I need to see a doctor (for example, how much larger should they get)? Also, at what age is there typically a higher risk for moles to undergo malignant transformation into cancer cells? Thank you!

sallin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/08/19

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology

*Raised moles often gradually lighten in color over the years, so the color may not be very uniform.
*Larger than 0.6 cm.
*After adulthood.

Reply Date: 2006/08/19

More Info

When it comes to moles, or nevi, understanding when to be concerned about changes is crucial for early detection of potential skin cancer, particularly melanoma. The characteristics of moles can provide important clues about their nature and whether they may pose a risk.

Firstly, it is important to note that moles can vary widely in appearance, and many people have benign moles that do not pose any health risks. However, certain changes in moles can be indicative of malignancy. The ABCDE rule is a helpful guideline for evaluating moles:
1. Asymmetry: If one half of the mole does not match the other half in shape, color, or size, this may be a warning sign.

2. Border: Moles with irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges are more concerning than those with smooth, even borders.

3. Color: A mole that has multiple colors (shades of brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue) or an uneven distribution of color should be examined.

4. Diameter: Moles larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) are more likely to be problematic, 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 reason to consult a healthcare provider.

In your case, you mentioned that the mole has increased in size to about 0.4mm and has become slightly raised with a color variation. While a size of 0.4mm is relatively small, the fact that it has changed over time and has a somewhat irregular shape and color could warrant further evaluation. It is essential to monitor any mole that is changing, especially if it becomes larger, changes color, or develops new features.

As for the age at which melanoma typically develops, it can occur at any age, but the risk increases with age. Melanoma is more common in adults over the age of 50, but it can also affect younger individuals, particularly those with risk factors such as a family history of skin cancer, a history of sunburns, or a large number of moles.

If you notice any of the following changes in your moles, it is advisable to seek medical attention:
- Significant increase in size or elevation.

- Changes in color or texture.

- Development of new symptoms such as itching, bleeding, or crusting.

- Any mole that looks different from your other moles (the "ugly duckling" sign).

In conclusion, while not all changes in moles indicate cancer, being vigilant and proactive about monitoring them is essential. If you have concerns, it is always best to consult a dermatologist who can perform a thorough examination and, if necessary, a biopsy to rule out malignancy. Early detection is key in the successful treatment of skin cancers, including melanoma.

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