What Are Moles?

Since certain moles can be malignant, any of them are often a concern of our patients. Dr. Indira Misra-Higgins of the Beverly Hills Skin Care Institute, serving Beverly Hills, MI, and the nearby region, are often examining moles and performing testing. That's why we'd like to take a moment to explain exactly what a mole is and when it's a cause for concern.

General Information

Essentially, a mole is a skin growth. It's a common issue, considering a majority of people have between 10 and 40 of them. They most commonly arise during childhood or adolescence. The sun may also cause you to gain new ones throughout your life. They may also change in appearance or fade.

A mole occurs when there's an overproduction of melanocytes in an area of your skin. Melanocytes are the skin cells responsible for pigmentation. They produce a substance called melanin, which gives your skin its color. But, when they form in a cluster, they cause a mole.

Moles can vary in size and color. Typically, though, a normal mole is tan or brownish in color. Some may be black, blue, or pink. They're usually round or oval in shape and under a quarter-inch in diameter. They can be raised, wrinkled, or flat.

When to Be Concerned

A normal mole is symmetrical. One that is symmetrical may be cancerous. It's also important to look at the border. A normal mole has a well-defined border, while a malignant one may be notched, scalloped, or irregular. Although a mole's color can vary, be concerned if one changes color or has many colors or the color isn't static throughout the mole.

Larger moles, unless present at birth, and particularly ones that are a 1/4-inch could be cancerous. Get any moles that change in color, shape, and size drastically checked.

It's also beneficial to watch for a mole that's bleeding, itchy, or painful. Keep in mind that other than those caused by malignant melanoma, the cause of pain isn't usually cancer.

What We Do About Moles

Our Beverly Hills, MI, dermatologist will evaluate any moles that you believe are concerning. Additionally, if you visit for a regular screening, we'll evaluate your moles and decide if one could be cancerous and further assess it.

In a case when cancer is possible, our practitioner will take a biopsy and carefully examine it.

At Beverly Hills Skin Care Institute in Beverly Hills, MI, Dr. Misra-Higgins understands moles could cause a person to worry but wants you to know that most are benign. It's just important to monitor your skin for new and odd ones. 

Book an appointment for a routine screening or if you have a concerning mole by calling (248) 723-5802.

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