According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, roughly 1 out of 100 people across the globe are born with a mole. Most adults have at least one or two common moles which are completely harmless. However, not every mole is a common mole. Some moles could be the first warning signs of cancer. Cancerous moles are known as melanoma and have a few distinguishing features that make it easier to spot and differentiate between a common mole. This article will go over what risks are associated with moles and when you should contact your dermatologist to get one checked out.
What Is Melanoma?
Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer arising from melanocytes. If left untreated and allowed to spread to the deeper parts of the skin and other organs it can be fatal. Today, about one person dies every hour due to melanoma cancer in the United States. Melanoma can appear almost anywhere on the body. Generally, you can find melanoma on the arms, legs, and back but it can also appear under fingernails, the scalp, or on the soles of your feet.
About 20-30% of melanomas arise from pre-existing moles, while 70-80% arise from normal-looking skin. If melanoma is caught early the five-year survival rate is estimated to be 99%. If caught late, this five-year survival rate is estimated to be about 50%. It is estimated that 7,180 people will die from melanoma in the United States in 2021
The Different Types of Melanoma
- Superficial Spreading Melanoma
Superficial Spreading Melanoma is the most common form and typically appears as a flat patch with irregular borders and may have different shades of tan, brown or black.
- Lentigo Maligna
This form of melanoma usually appears on sun-exposed skin of elderly individuals and can appear as an irregularly bordered tan, brown, or blue-black patch.
- Acral Lentiginous Melanoma
This type of melanoma appears on the under the nails, soles of the feet and palms. It is the most common form of melanoma in people of color.
- Nodular Melanoma
Nodular Melanoma is the most aggressive form of melanoma and usually appears as an asymmetric bump on the skin.
Atypical Moles
Atypical moles aren’t necessarily a sign that you have melanoma, they just mean that you have a higher risk of developing cancer. This is especially true if you notice that you have four or more atypical moles, you already had melanoma, or you are a direct relative of someone who has had melanoma, such as a parent, sibling, or child.
Atypical moles often have the following characteristics:
- They are larger than an eraser at the end of a pencil
- They are not round
- They have more than one color, such as a mixture of tan, brown, and red
Atypical moles can appear anywhere on the body.
Congenital Mole
Individuals who were born with a mole have a congenital mole. These moles can vary in size, ranging from tiny to massive. Having a congenital mole increases the risk of developing melanoma in the young adult years of 20-39.
Spitz Nevus
A Spitz nevus is trickier because it often looks like melanoma to the naked eye. Most of these moles are characterized by their pink color and their raised dome shape. These moles can also come in different colors such as red, black, or brown. These moles may bleed or have an opening that oozes.
Can I Decrease My Chances of Getting Melanoma?
The best way to decrease your risk of getting melanoma is to use sun protection and protective clothing. The sun can be very damaging to your skin and increase your risk. This is especially true if your family has a history of melanoma.
When Should I Get My Mole Checked Out By a Doctor?
For adults, individuals should get a skin check at least once a year or twice a year by a dermatologist for those who have a history of melanoma or other skin conditions in the family. It is also highly recommended for you to check your skin once a month. Take note of any moles you have and watch out for the following:
- Asymmetry: One half of the spot is different than the other, whether in size, shape, or color
- Border: An irregular border
- Color: Varying shades of tan, brown, or black
- Diameter: The size of the mole is larger than 6mm (larger than a pencil eraser), or it is rapidly growing
- Evolving: The mole is changing in shape, color, or size
Remember the A, B, C, D, E‘s
If you have noticed any of the above on your body, it is extremely important that you contact the dermatology team at DoctorMeNow, today! We can assist in diagnosis, or keep an eye on moles or other skin conditions you may be concerned about. Contact our team for more information on our services or to schedule an appointment with one of our compassionate healthcare professionals.
