A precancerous mole, also known as a dysplastic nevus or atypical mole, may exhibit the following symptoms or characteristics:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.
- Irregular Border: The edges of the mole are not smooth and may be scalloped or jagged.
- Varied Color: The mole has multiple shades, including various shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue.
- Larger Diameter: Precancerous moles are often larger than the diameter of a pencil eraser (about 6 mm or 1/4 inch).
- Changes Over Time: The mole may evolve in size, shape, color, or texture. New moles can also appear in adulthood, which should be monitored.
Not all atypical moles become cancerous, but they do increase the risk of developing skin cancer, particularly melanoma. Regular skin checks and professional evaluations, especially for individuals with a history of sun exposure or a family history of skin cancer, are crucial. If any of these symptoms are present, a healthcare professional should be consulted for further evaluation and potential biopsy to rule out melanoma or other skin cancers.
If a precancerous mole (dysplastic nevus) is suspected or identified, the following steps should be taken:
- Medical Evaluation: Schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider, preferably a dermatologist, for a professional examination. The dermatologist will use the ABCDE rule (Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter, and Evolution) to assess the mole.
- Skin Biopsy: The doctor may recommend a biopsy to remove the entire mole or a part of it for laboratory analysis. This will help determine if the mole is precancerous or cancerous.
- Regular Monitoring: After the biopsy, the doctor will provide guidance on how often you should have your skin checked. This may involve self-examinations and professional skin checks, especially if you have a history of precancerous moles or atypical moles.
- Sun Protection: Limit sun exposure and use sun protection measures, such as wearing sunscreen with a high SPF, protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses, to reduce the risk of further damage to your skin.
- Avoid Tanning Beds: Ultraviolet radiation from tanning beds can increase the risk of skin cancer. It’s best to avoid using them.
- Awareness of Changes: Be vigilant about any changes in your skin, such as the appearance of new moles or changes in existing moles. Report these to your doctor promptly.
- Consider Removal: Depending on the biopsy results and the doctor’s recommendation, you may opt to have the mole completely removed, especially if it is at high risk for becoming cancerous.
- Genetic Counseling: If there is a family history of melanoma or atypical moles, your doctor may suggest genetic counseling to assess your risk and determine appropriate screening protocols.
please follow the doctor’s advice and maintain regular skin checks to ensure early detection and management of any potential skin cancers.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, precancerous moles are moles that have abnormal cell changes that could lead to skin cancer. The risk of a precancerous mole (dysplastic nevus) progressing to cancer varies from person to person and depends on several factors, including the number of atypical moles, personal and family history of skin cancer, and the results of the biopsy.
While not all precancerous moles will develop into melanoma or other types of skin cancer, having atypical moles does increase the risk. Individuals with multiple atypical moles, a history of excessive sun exposure, fair skin, a family history of melanoma, or a personal history of melanoma are at a higher risk.
The presence of a single atypical mole may not significantly raise the risk of developing cancer, but the risk increases with the number of atypical moles a person has. For example, having 10 or more atypical moles can increase the risk of melanoma by 12 times.
It’s important to note that the risk of a precancerous mole becoming cancerous is still lower than the risk of a new mole developing into cancer. However, because atypical moles can be difficult to distinguish from melanoma, they require careful monitoring.
Regular skin checks, professional evaluations, and prompt treatment of any suspicious changes are essential for early detection and management of skin cancer. If you have atypical moles, it’s crucial to work closely with a dermatologist to develop a monitoring and management plan tailored to your specific risk factors.
