Atypical moles

Atypical moles are known to occur in one out of every ten people. These moles are quite different from the ordinary moles and can be easily identified. Atypical moles need to be observed regularly as some of them may turn into melanoma, a type of skin cancer. Let’s find out more about atypical moles and how they are different from normal moles.

Atypical moles differ from normal moles in terms of shape, size, appearance, number and area of occurrence. While ordinary moles look similar on the same person, Atypical moles may vary in size, shape and color.

Sometimes they have an irregular shape. Normal moles usually number between 10 to 40 on the average adult’s body. However, Atypical moles may number more than a hundred on the same person. Typical moles are usually found only on the upper parts of the body in sun exposed areas. Atypical moles, on the other hand, can be found at places like the scalp, buttocks and breasts.

Atypical moles are known as “dysplastic nevi” in dermatology jargon. The risk of melanoma from atypical moles increases if there is a history of melanoma in the family. Presence of too many atypical moles and excessive exposure to sun causing skin freckles also increases the risk of melanoma.

Like all other skin ailments, atypical moles can be detected by the patient himself. Early detection can lead to fast diagnosis and reduces the risk of melanoma. There is no specific prevention or treatment procedure. As mentioned before, atypical moles should be treated with caution, especially if the patient’s family has a history of melanoma. Diagnosis often involves photographing the body to find if the atypical moles are changing in size, shape, or color. Removal of the moles may reduce the risk of melanoma, but is not necessarily removes it altogether.