the Health Implications of Moles Under the Ribs

Location of moles?

The patient has noticed asymmetrical moles located approximately at the second-to-last rib below the nipple, with the left mole being slightly lower than the right.
The moles are black and about the size of a half green bean, and occasionally there is some itching.
The patient is inquiring whether the location of these moles is connected to any specific organs and if it indicates any health issues.
Could the doctor please provide a brief explanation? Thank you!

Lan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/11/22

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear Lan / 22 years old / Female user,
Hello,
1.
Below your nipple, around the area of the second-to-last rib, there are asymmetrical moles on both sides (the left side is slightly lower).
The moles are approximately the size of half a green bean and can sometimes be itchy.
It is important to consider whether these are ordinary moles or if there are any skin changes or potential breast malignancies (although the likelihood is lower in young unmarried women, caution is still advised).
I recommend seeing a dermatologist or a breast surgeon for an examination to rule out the possibility of malignant skin tumors (such as skin cancer or breast cancer).
If the moles appear irregular, with colors resembling blue strawberries or black mulberries, surgical removal and cytological examination should be considered to prevent future carcinogenesis.
2.
Currently, this issue does not have a significant correlation with the meridian organ connections.
It may be due to genetic mutations in skin cells, or it could be related to the embryonic stage of the fertilized egg, stress, environmental factors, or unknown causes.
3.
At present, this issue may not have a major impact on your health, but it is difficult to predict how it may change or affect your body in the future.
I suggest you observe the situation closely, seek medical consultation or consider removal, and incorporate more antioxidant and anti-cancer foods or traditional Chinese medicine into your diet for improvement.
Finally, I wish you well.
Dr.
Lin Qingzhong,
Director of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fengyuan Hospital,
Assistant Professor

Reply Date: 2010/11/22

More Info

Understanding the health implications of moles, particularly those located under the ribs, requires a comprehensive approach that considers both dermatological and systemic health factors. Moles, or nevi, are common skin growths that can vary in size, color, and shape. While most moles are benign, changes in their appearance or new moles can sometimes indicate underlying health issues, including skin cancer.

In your case, you mentioned having moles located near the lower ribs, specifically under the nipple area. The size of the moles you described—about the size of a half green bean—and their occasional itchiness warrant careful observation. Itching can be a sign of irritation, but it is not inherently indicative of a serious condition. However, any changes in color, size, or shape, or the development of new symptoms such as bleeding or crusting, should prompt a visit to a healthcare professional.

From a traditional Chinese medicine perspective, certain areas of the body are believed to correspond to specific organs. The ribs house vital organs such as the lungs and the heart, and some practitioners might suggest that issues in these areas could be reflected in the skin. However, it is essential to approach this with caution, as such interpretations are not universally accepted in Western medicine.

In Western medicine, the primary concern with moles is their potential to develop into melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. The ABCDE rule is a helpful guideline for assessing moles:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.

- 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).

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

If your moles exhibit any of these characteristics, or if you have any concerns about their appearance, it is crucial to consult a dermatologist. They can perform a thorough examination and, if necessary, a biopsy to rule out malignancy.

In terms of the connection between moles and organ health, while some alternative medicine practitioners may suggest that skin conditions reflect internal health issues, scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited. It is always best to rely on medical evaluations and diagnostics to understand any potential health implications.

In summary, while the presence of moles under the ribs may not directly correlate with specific organ health issues, any changes or symptoms associated with them should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Regular skin checks and awareness of changes in moles are essential for early detection of potential skin cancers. If you experience persistent itching, changes in the moles, or any other concerning symptoms, please seek medical advice promptly.

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