Bleeding Moles: Causes and Healing Insights - Dermatology

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When it comes to understanding bleeding moles, particularly in the context of your recent experience with a flat mole that was accidentally injured while grooming, there are several important factors to consider regarding the nature of moles, their potential for change, and the healing process.

First, it’s essential to understand what a mole (or nevus) is. Moles are typically benign growths on the skin that arise from melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment. They can vary in color, size, and shape. Flat moles, like the one you described, are usually harmless. However, when a mole is injured, as in your case, it can lead to bleeding and subsequent changes in appearance.

The bleeding you experienced after accidentally cutting the mole with scissors is likely due to the trauma inflicted on the skin and the blood vessels within or around the mole. When a mole is cut, it can bleed profusely, especially if the injury affects deeper layers of the skin. After the initial bleeding, the body begins the healing process, which involves inflammation, tissue repair, and eventually the formation of new skin.

As for the raised appearance of the mole after healing, this can occur for a couple of reasons. One possibility is that the injury led to a scar formation. Scars can sometimes appear raised, especially if the healing process involved significant collagen production as the body repaired the damaged tissue. This is known as hypertrophic scarring, which is common in areas of the skin that have been injured.

Another possibility is that the mole itself has undergone a change due to the injury. While most moles remain stable, trauma can sometimes stimulate changes in the mole's structure. If the mole appears significantly different (for example, changes in color, size, or shape), it is crucial to have it evaluated by a dermatologist. They can perform a thorough examination and, if necessary, a biopsy to determine whether the mole is still benign or if it has undergone any pathological changes.

It’s also worth noting that while most moles are benign, any changes in a mole's appearance, especially after trauma, should be monitored closely. 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 mole exhibits any of these characteristics, or if you have any concerns about its appearance or the healing process, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide a definitive diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment if necessary.

In summary, while the raised appearance of your mole after injury may be a normal part of the healing process, it is essential to monitor it for any changes. If you have any doubts or concerns, seeking the advice of a dermatologist is the best course of action to ensure your skin health and peace of mind.