What Are Moles? Understanding Causes, Risks, and Treatment Options
Most of us have them—those small, dark spots on our skin that we’ve had for as long as we can remember. Commonly known as moles or medically termed ‘nevi’, they are often a normal part of our skin’s landscape. But what exactly are they, when should we pay them extra attention, and what can be done about them if needed? To shed light on these questions, we turn to an expert.
As renowned dermatologist Dr. Atul Kathed explains, “Moles are, in their most basic form, simply clusters of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. They are generally harmless, but understanding them is the first step towards proactive skin health.”
What Causes Moles to Appear?
The primary cause of moles is the natural behavior of melanocytes. Instead of being spread evenly throughout the skin, these cells sometimes grow in clusters, forming the mole we see. The development of moles is influenced by a combination of factors:
- Genetics: Your family history plays a significant role. If your parents have many moles, you are more likely to develop them as well.
- Sun Exposure: This is a major contributor. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can trigger the development of moles, especially during childhood and adolescence. This is why limiting sun exposure in young ones is crucial.
- Hormonal Changes: Significant hormonal shifts, such as those during puberty, pregnancy, or with certain medical treatments, can cause existing moles to darken or new ones to appear.
According to dermatologist Dr. Atul Kathed, “It’s completely normal for new moles to form until about the age of 40. However, any new mole that appears after that, or any existing mole that begins to change, deserves a professional evaluation.”
When Should a Mole Be a Cause for Concern? The ABCDE Rule
The vast majority of moles are benign. The key is to identify the rare mole that could be a sign of melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer. For this, dermatologist Dr. Atul Kathed recommends that everyone become familiar with the ABCDE rule, a simple guide for self-examination:
- A – Asymmetry: If you draw an imaginary line through the middle of the mole, the two halves do not match.
- B – Border: The borders of the mole are irregular, ragged, blurred, or notched instead of being smooth and well-defined.
- C – Color: The color is not uniform. It may have varying shades of brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue.
- D – Diameter: The mole is larger than the size of a pencil eraser (about 6 millimeters), though melanomas can sometimes be smaller.
- E – Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, color, or height. A new symptom, like bleeding, itching, or crusting, is also a red flag.
“Remember,” cautions dermatologist Dr. Atul Kathed, “the ‘E’ for evolving is perhaps the most critical. Our skin changes with us, but a mole shouldn’t be dramatically transforming. When in doubt, get it checked out. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.”
What Are the Treatment Options for Moles?
Not all moles require treatment. If a mole is benign but bothersome for cosmetic reasons, or if a dermatologist suspects it might be cancerous, removal is a straightforward procedure. Dermatologist Dr. Atul Kathed and his team typically perform these quick, in-office procedures under local anesthesia. The main methods are:
- Shave Excision: For moles that are raised above the skin’s surface, a small blade is used to shave the mole off flush with the skin. This usually requires no stitches.
- Surgical Excision: For flat or potentially atypical moles, the dermatologist will cut out the entire mole along with a small margin of healthy skin, and then stitch the area closed. This method allows for the tissue to be sent to a lab for biopsy to rule out cancer.
- Laser Removal: This may be an option for certain small, non-cancerous moles. The laser light breaks down the pigment cells within the mole.
“The choice of procedure depends entirely on the mole’s characteristics and the patient’s goals,” clarifies dermatologist Dr. Atul Kathed. “The primary goal is always to ensure health first and address cosmetic concerns second.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it safe to remove a mole?
Yes, when performed by a qualified dermatologist like Dr. Atul Kathed, mole removal is a very safe and common procedure. The risks are minimal and primarily include minor scarring or infection, which can be managed with proper care.
2. Can a mole grow back after removal?
It is possible, though not very common. If a mole is shaved off, there is a small chance that some pigment cells remain deep in the skin and could regrow. If a mole is surgically excised, the chance of it growing back is significantly lower.
3. What’s the difference between a skin tag and a mole?
Skin tags are soft, small, flesh-colored growths that hang off the skin by a tiny stalk. Moles are typically darker and are flat or raised spots embedded in the skin. They are composed of different types of cells.
4. How often should I check my moles?
It’s a good habit to do a self-exam once a month. For a more thorough assessment, an annual skin check with a dermatologist is highly recommended, especially if you have a family history of skin cancer, fair skin, or many moles.
In conclusion, moles are a common feature of human skin. While most are harmless, being vigilant about changes and seeking professional advice when concerned is the cornerstone of skin cancer prevention. As the expert guidance of dermatologist Dr. Atul Kathed underscores, a proactive approach to skin health is a simple yet powerful investment in your long-term well-being.
