Conditions : Medical Dermatology

Moles

Moles are called nevi (singular is nevus). The number of nevi can increase throughout life, influenced by genetics and sun exposure. A changing mole could be a sign of melanoma. Additionally, melanoma often arises from normal skin, not necessarily from a pre-existing mole.

The criteria for clinical suspicion: ABCD

A for ASYMMETRY
B for BORDER IRREGULARITY
C for COLOR VARIATION
D for DIAMETOR GREATER THAN 6 MILLIMETERS

New or changing moles should be evaluated in the office and can be removed by a skin biopsy or simple excision. Removal of moles for solely cosmetic purposes can also be performed.

Barnett Dermatology recommends an annual skin screening exam for everyone. For patients with a personal or family history of skin cancer, the screening exam may need to be more frequently. 

Learn how to protect yourselves from the sun and how to better detect suspicious spots and skin cancer at http://www.spotskincancer.org