Moles and Melanoma: Concerns and Solutions

Questions about moles and melanoma?

Hello, Dr.
Wu.
I have fair skin and many moles of various sizes on my body.
I didn't have so many before, but for some reason, as I've grown older, more and more moles have appeared.
Some of them are quite large and raised.
Below are a few photos for your review:
1.
These two adjacent moles: I originally had one, but suddenly another one appeared, located on my fibula and slightly raised.
[Link to photo]
2.
This mole is on my arm, dark black, and protruding.
[Link to photo]
3.
This mole is located on the lower back, and it often gets red, painful, and itchy due to friction from clothing.
[Link to photo]
4.
This is the most concerning mole: I initially had one, but another large, protruding one has developed.
People often find it disgusting, which makes me feel very self-conscious, as if I have a large piece of flesh hanging there.
The mole can even be twisted, but its base is attached to my neck.
I have felt so self-conscious that I considered cutting it off with scissors, but my family stopped me.
[Link to photo]
5.
This mole is on the inner side of my arm, dark black, and raised.

I recently came across this article [Link to article] stating that people often mistake melanomas for moles, which scared me because I have many moles of various sizes on my body, some of which are slightly raised.
I haven't counted them seriously, but there are at least several dozen.
I'm worried that these moles might be those so-called melanomas.

I would like to ask the doctor if there is a way to prevent further moles from developing.
It's really frightening to see my body covered in dark spots.
Not to mention how others might perceive them, I find it bothersome and annoying myself! Additionally, I have freckles on my face, which makes me feel very self-conscious.
I wonder why I can't have clear, fair skin like others, and instead, I feel like a blank sheet of paper covered in ink, with no one wanting to look at me twice.

ANN, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/04/01

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

I have a question.
Why do you spend so much time searching for information and consulting online instead of visiting a doctor for a proper diagnosis? I've seen your photos, and a physician cannot determine whether a mole is benign or malignant online.
There is also no method to prevent moles from growing back.
I'm sorry, but please consult a doctor in person for treatment.

Reply Date: 2014/04/01

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding moles and melanoma. It’s completely understandable to feel anxious about changes in your skin, especially when it comes to moles, as they can sometimes be associated with skin cancer, particularly melanoma. Let’s break down your concerns and provide some insights.

Understanding Moles
Moles, or nevi, are common skin growths that can appear anywhere on the body. They are usually brown or black and can be flat or raised. Most people have between 10 to 40 moles, and they can change in size, shape, and color over time. The appearance of new moles, especially during adolescence or early adulthood, is quite common. However, if you notice an increase in the number of moles or changes in existing ones, it’s essential to monitor them closely.

Concerns About Melanoma
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment in the skin. While most moles are benign, certain characteristics can indicate a higher risk of melanoma. The ABCDE rule is a helpful guideline to assess 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, it’s crucial to consult a dermatologist for a professional evaluation.

Solutions and Management
1. Regular Skin Checks: It’s advisable to perform regular self-examinations of your skin to monitor any changes in your moles. If you notice any concerning changes, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist.

2. Dermatological Evaluation: Given your concerns about the appearance and characteristics of your moles, a visit to a dermatologist is essential. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend a biopsy if they suspect any mole could be malignant.

3. Preventing New Moles: While it’s not possible to completely prevent new moles from forming, protecting your skin from UV radiation can help reduce the risk. This includes:
- Using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

- Wearing protective clothing and hats.

- Avoiding tanning beds and excessive sun exposure.

4. Cosmetic Options: If the appearance of your moles is causing you distress, discuss cosmetic options with your dermatologist. They may suggest treatments such as laser therapy or surgical removal for moles that are bothersome or unsightly.

5. Managing Self-Esteem: It’s important to address the emotional impact that skin changes can have. Consider speaking with a counselor or therapist if feelings of self-consciousness or low self-esteem persist. They can provide strategies to help you cope with these feelings.

Conclusion
Your concerns about moles and the potential for melanoma are valid, and it’s essential to take proactive steps in monitoring your skin health. Regular check-ups with a dermatologist can provide peace of mind and ensure that any changes are addressed promptly. Remember, while it’s natural to feel self-conscious about your appearance, there are options available to help you feel more comfortable in your skin. Don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help, both for your skin and your emotional well-being. Take care!

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