Cancerous Moles - Signs, Symptoms and Treatment

Skin moles, known medically as nevi, are clusters of pigmented skin cells which are almost always benign. However, cancerous moles are a serious health concern; if you have moles that appear on the surface of the skin after you reach the age of 20, or if you have moles that change in shape, size or color, it is crucial that you have them examined by a doctor or dermatologist. If you have cancerous moles, they will need to be treated immediately to avoid long-term health complications.

How are moles formed?

Moles occur when a large number of skin cells reproduce in a small area, forming one or more raised patches of skin. Because these skin cells contain a large amount of pigment, they often appear darker than the surrounding skin.

Moles that are present at birth or shortly afterward are called congenital nevi, and they tend to be small and more or less symmetrical in shape. While they are most often black or brown in color, they may appear in a variety of other shades, as well.

How do I know if I have cancerous moles?

Most moles are completely harmless, and they are not likely to develop cancerous cells. However, if you have moles on any part of your skin, you should be vigilant about checking them periodically for any of the following symptoms:

• An uneven, asymmetrical appearance;


• Changes in their appearance;


• Moles that do not appear until after age 20 or later;


• Moles that increase in size;


• Moles that become itchy or scaly;


• Bleeding or tenderness.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is very important that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. If you do develop skin cancer, early treatment is the key to a successful cure.

Will I need to have my moles surgically removed?

If you have cancerous moles, your doctor will recommend that they be removed immediately. Cutting into a mole with cancer cells will not cause the disease to spread. Although non-cancerous moles are harmless, people who are bothered by their appearance may choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons.

Is there a way to get rid of moles without permanent scarring?

Conventional methods for getting rid of moles typically involve cutting the growths away with a specialized surgical tool. Unfortunately, this method can be rather painful, and it ordinarily results in some degree of scarring.