Sudden Appearance of Multiple Moles: When to See a Dermatologist?

Q: Sudden Appearance of Multiple Moles: When to See a Dermatologist?

Hello Lynne： The answer is, "You need to see a doctor." It is recommended that when you notice the described symptoms on your skin, you should promptly visit a public hospital under the Department of Health in your city or county and consult with a dermatologist. <br>All of our p

A sudden increase in the number of moles in the same area?

In the second half of the year, I suddenly developed many moles on my back with varying shades of color; some are dark brown while others appear as faint patchy spots.
Although they are not very prominent yet, there is one larger mole with uneven coloration.
Should I see a doctor about this? If I need to perform a self-examination, what should I check for?

Lynne, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/11/26

Dr. Hong Zhengsheng reply Dermatology

Hello Lynne: The answer is, "You need to see a doctor." It is recommended that when you notice the described symptoms on your skin, you should promptly visit a public hospital under the Department of Health in your city or county and consult with a dermatologist.
All of our physicians are very willing to assist you.
Thank you for using "Taiwan e-Hospital" to ask your question.
"Taiwan e-Hospital" cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2006/11/26

More Info

The sudden appearance of multiple moles, especially when they vary in color and size, can be concerning and warrants a visit to a dermatologist. Moles, or nevi, are common skin growths that can appear at any age, but a sudden increase in their number or changes in existing moles can be a sign of underlying issues that need to be evaluated.

When considering whether to see a dermatologist, there are several key factors to keep in mind. The ABCDE rule is a helpful guideline for assessing moles:
1. Asymmetry: If one half of the mole does not match the other half, it may be a cause for concern.

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

3. Color: Moles that have multiple colors (such as shades of brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue) are more suspicious.

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

5. Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or elevation, or any new symptom such as bleeding, itching, or crusting, is a reason to see a dermatologist.

In your case, since you mentioned that one of the moles is larger and has uneven color, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist as soon as possible. They will perform a thorough examination of your skin and may recommend a biopsy of the suspicious mole to determine whether it is benign or malignant.

In addition to the visual examination, the dermatologist may also consider your personal and family history of skin cancer, any history of excessive sun exposure, and other risk factors. If you have a family history of melanoma or other skin cancers, this further emphasizes the need for a professional evaluation.

During your visit, the dermatologist may perform the following:
- Dermatoscopy: This is a non-invasive procedure that uses a dermatoscope to magnify the mole and allow for a more detailed examination of its structure.

- Biopsy: If a mole appears suspicious, the dermatologist may take a small sample of skin (biopsy) for laboratory analysis to check for cancerous cells.

It's important to note that while most moles are benign, early detection of skin cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes. Therefore, if you notice any changes or new moles, it is better to err on the side of caution and seek medical advice.

In summary, given the sudden appearance of multiple moles on your back, especially with one being larger and uneven in color, it is highly recommended that you see a dermatologist. They will provide a comprehensive evaluation and determine if any further testing or treatment is necessary. Remember, proactive skin health is crucial, and regular skin checks can help catch potential issues early.

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