Having moles is quite common, particularly for those with a fair complexion. The overgrowth of skin cells is known as moles or melanocytes. Most moles are not harmful until they change in color, shape, or size. In a few cases, the moles may occur in people of various generations of the family. So, the moles may be inherited, but the concept is not understood well.
At Manhattan Dermatology, you can get the best treatment for a mole in New York, U.S., at an affordable price. They provide medical, surgical, and cosmetic services to treat various problems, from aging signs to eczema and more.
About moles
In medical terminology, moles are known as nevi. Most moles develop in the areas that are exposed to ultraviolet radiation. Moles may also develop due to hormonal changes during pregnancy and adolescence. They may change in shape, size, and appearance, like growing hair from them, fading, darkening, or disappearing. Older people and infants will have few moles.
Types of moles
- Melanocytic (benign) nevi – These moles occur during childhood
- Congenital nevi – present at the time of birth or during infancy
- Atypical or dysplastic nevi – Develops at any time
Moles and heredity
Few people are more likely to get moles, which develop into melanoma (serious skin cancer). Certain factors like having one or more large moles during birth, having too many moles, having unusual or abnormal moles, and genetics may improve the chances of getting melanoma.
Heredity is also one of the causes of having moles. Although there is less information about the involvement of genes in causing moles, it is considered that dysplastic nevi and having more benign moles are caused because of heredity. Having more moles can lead to melanoma, even cancer in a few cases.
Unusual moles that cause melanoma
The following is an ABCDE guide that will help you in determining moles that indicate skin cancer or melanoma:
- Asymmetrical shape – ½ is different from the other
- Border – Moles with scalloped, notches, or irregular borders
- Color – uneven or changes in color
- Diameter – More than 6 millimeters (larger than an eraser)
- Evolving – Changes in height, color, shape, and size, and develops symptoms like bleeding and itching
Cancerous moles differ in appearance. A few will have only one feature of the above-stated list, while the others will have all of them.
If you notice any change in moles or experience symptoms like bleeding and itching in the area of moles, you have to consult a dermatologist as soon as possible.
