Melanocytes are cells found in the epidermis that has the function of producing melanin. This brown pigment is responsible for blocking ultraviolet rays to avoid damaging the DNA of skin exposed to the sun. Moles result from the accumulation of melanocyte cells in certain parts of the body, which, when growing in groups, give rise to the spot.
Moles can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on the trunk, back, and arms. These spots can be made up of benign or malignant cells, the latter being responsible for skin cancer. In the presence of a mole, it is essential to analyze specific characteristics of it, such as its size, shape, and color, to identify its possible malignancy in time. For this reason, in this FastlyHealarticle, we offer you some tips to detect a malignant mole.
Table of Contents
Old or birth moles
People can be born with moles or have spots on the skin that have accompanied them most of their lives. No matter how old they are, these moles are not entirely harmless since, like any part of our body, they can undergo changes that modify their physical and cellular structure. Therefore, the first tip to detect malignant moles that we offer you is to be aware of any changes in the color, size, and texture of all the moles on your body.
Suppose you notice that any of your moles have suddenly changed their color or shape. In that case, you must go to the dermatologist so that an examination of the skin determines what processes are causing the spot to become different. When we have moles in areas that are difficult to see by ourselves, such as the back, it is advisable to ask a trusted person to check if there has been any change in the appearance of these spots at least once a month.
The mole is asymmetrical.
To detect a malignant mole, it is essential to be attentive to its shape since these skin lesions are generally asymmetrical; they are not entirely round and not oval either.
To correctly analyze this feature, it is convenient to detail the two halves of the mole, which are different in cases of malignancy. This characteristic is pervasive in melanomas, so asymmetric moles are considered dangerous.
Analyze the edges of the mole
The edges of a benign mole are entirely linear, whereas malignant moles have irregular or undefined edges.
It is essential to be attentive if the beginning and end of the mole cannot be observed, that is, to verify if the mole is drawn on the skin without being able to determine the limits of its extension.
Benign moles don’t cause symptoms.
To detect a malignant mole, you must also be aware of any symptoms that the injury may manifest, such as itching, pain, or inflammation. Cell changes can also cause bleeding, oozing, or ulcers.
These symptoms can occur in both new and old moles. Therefore, it is always essential to consult with a medical specialist to rule out any complications.
A new mole, watch out!
The skin can change from one day to the next, so it is essential to be vigilant when showering for any new and strange manifestations that may appear. Some moles appear suddenly; today, we do not have them; tomorrow, we do, and this is one of the main signs of malignancy, especially if the new lesion begins as one color and suddenly turns dark black.
What color is your mole?
There are brown, orange, pink, and black polka dots and many colors simultaneously. What are the dangerous ones? Those lesions that present more than one tone attract the eye’s attention because they are very black, almost darker than a jet.
On the other hand, Benign moles are characterized by their homogeneous tone, and there are no modifications in any part of the stain, not even at its edges.
Size does matter
The usual thing is that a mole measures up to 1 centimeter in diameter; therefore, all those moles that exceed this measurement are considered carefully. It is also essential to see if any old mole has changed or grown little by little. In some cases of malignancy, moles can increase in diameter very quickly.
How to tell if a mole is benign
To learn how to detect a malignant mole, it is essential to recognize the main characteristics of those lesions that do not represent any risk. Here we tell you what benign moles look like:
- Brown color.
- They are usually flat or embossed.
- Its shape is round or perfectly oval.
- They have smooth edges that allow you to know exactly where they start and end.
- They are symmetrical in form.
- They can have up to two colors.
- They measure up to six millimeters.
Alert!
Suppose you have a family history of skin cancer or have noticed that there is a mole on your body with characteristics of malignancy. In that case, you must make an appointment with your dermatologist to check the composition of this lesion and determine if it is necessary to remove it.
This article is merely informative; at FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Tips to detect a malignant mole, we recommend that you enter our Skin, hair, and nails category.
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.