While many varieties of moles on the skin are harmless, others can indicateskin cancer.
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Characteristics of Concerning Skin Moles
There are manytypes of moles.
Only some of them possess the characteristics that should prompt concern.
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Even if you do notice changes, it does not necessarily mean that you have skin cancer.
They arecommon molesanddysplastic nevusmoles.
Melanoma vs. Dysplastic Nevus
While melanoma and dysplastic nevus have similar characteristics, they are different.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Waikato District Health Boardwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
They may also ooze or bleed, which does not happen to dysplastic nevus.
However, they do indicate that you may be more likely to develop a cancerous mole.
That way, youll be able to see a dermatologist as soon as you notice any changes.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Waikato District Health Boardwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Reproduced with permission from A DermNet and A Waikato District Health Boardwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
National Cancer Institute.Common moles, dysplastic nevus, and risk of melanoma.
American Cancer Society.Risk factors for melanoma skin cancer.
Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation.The ABCDE’s of Early Detection.
