Which Moles Are Dangerous
Moles (nevi) are pigmented formations on the skin that almost everyone has. In most cases they are harmless and are merely a cosmetic feature. However, some of them can turn into malignant tumours, such as melanoma. This process is called malignisation. In this article I will explain which moles are dangerous, and at the end — which ones you need not worry about.
Let’s go.
Moles that change in shape, colour, or size, as well as those that itch, bleed, or become inflamed, are considered dangerous. Special attention should be paid to asymmetrical spots with uneven edges and heterogeneous colouring.
Moles That Have Started to Grow
If a mole has started to increase in size, it requires special attention. An increase in the size of a nevus can indicate pathological processes, especially if the growth is rapid and accompanied by changes in its structure. Such changes may be a sign of melanoma — a malignant skin tumour that develops from pigment cells. But don’t panic and don’t rush to look at pictures on the internet. An oncologist is more interested in the dynamics — how this formation is changing.
Normally, moles remain stable in size for many years rather than growing. A critical signal is uneven growth, when protruding areas appear or the base expands. Besides changes in size, dangerous signs include colour change, uneven edges, itching, bleeding, or peeling.
Moles That Have Become Painful or Started to Bleed
If a mole suddenly becomes painful or starts to bleed, this is a reason to consult an oncologist. In principle, you can also see a dermatologist, but I prefer an oncologist. Such changes may indicate the development of malignant processes. But not always. Only a doctor will give you a well-founded opinion.
Normally, these formations should remain painless and not change externally. Any unpleasant sensations — itching, burning, or bleeding — are alarming symptoms indicating the need for a thorough medical examination. To rule out oncological processes, the doctor may prescribe dermatoscopy, biopsy, cytological examination, and other diagnostic procedures.
Moles That Have Started to Change: Colour, Shape, Density, Painfulness
This is a mole to watch. You need to see whether it is growing in size.
Special attention should be paid to moles that have started to change noticeably. Changes in colour may indicate pathological processes: the spot may become significantly darker, darken unevenly, or acquire several shades — from brown to black, as well as red, blue, or white inclusions. Shape also plays an important role: if it has become asymmetrical, with uneven, jagged, or blurred edges, this is a cause for concern. Changes in density — when the mole becomes harder to the touch, softens, or starts to peel — may indicate pathological processes. The appearance of pain, itching, burning, bleeding, or any unpleasant sensations in the mole are alarming signs requiring immediate consultation with an oncologist. Even if only one of the listed symptoms appears, it is important to undergo examination, because such changes may indicate the transition of a benign formation into a malignant form, such as melanoma.
Which Moles Are Not Dangerous
Not all moles pose a health threat. Most moles are benign skin formations that do not require special intervention. Usually, harmless moles have clear, even edges, uniform colour (from light brown to a rich shade), and small sizes — as a rule, not exceeding 6 mm in diameter. They are symmetrical and remain stable for a long time, without changes in shape, colour, or size. If a nevus does not cause discomfort, does not itch, and does not bleed, it can generally be considered harmless. To confirm benignity, regular self-examination is recommended. Nevertheless, even safe moles require careful observation, since changes in their appearance may signal problems.
Moles That Are Constantly Traumatised
Moles that are constantly traumatised represent a special group of skin formations requiring increased attention. Mechanical damage from rubbing against clothing, frequent friction, or accidental blows can lead to inflammation, bleeding, and changes in the mole’s structure. Such constant trauma can provoke mutational processes in skin cells, increasing the risk of their transformation into malignant tumours, particularly melanoma. Moles located in areas of increased friction — on the waist, under the arms, on the neck, and on the feet — are especially dangerous. If a mole is regularly damaged, becomes painful, changes shape or colour, or starts to bleed, this is a reason to see a doctor.
Keywords (English):
dangerous moles, melanoma, mole changes, skin cancer, nevus, malignisation, dermatoscopy, biopsy, mole growing, bleeding mole, itching mole, asymmetric mole, benign moles, mole self-examination, oncologist, dermatologist
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