A mole is made up of skin cells (ie melanocytes) that grow in clusters instead of being dispersed through the skin. Melanocytes make the pigment that give skin its natural colour. Normal moles can range in colour from pink, to brown to even black. Their shape can be round or oval. Their size can range from being barely visible to large. They may be flat or raised. Some moles have hair.
What is an atypical or abnormal mole (Dysplastic nevi)?
They are irregular in shape and people with dysplastic nevi have about 100 moles instead of between 15-20. Dysplastic nevi are more likely to turn to melanoma than normal moles.
Where does it appear?
A mole can appear anywhere on the body in various sizes and shapes.
When to do they appear?
Some moles (nevi) are congenital so appear at birth. They can be small or large and the large moles have the highest risk of malignant changes. The incidence increases in childhood and peaks at adolescence.
Sun exposure seems to play a role in the development of moles.
Do moles change?
Moles can appear as flat brown spots and can become elevated and/or grow hair. Certain types of moles carry the risk of being malignant. The American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute recommends seeing a doctor immediately if the mole changes in the size, shape or color of or if it bleeds or becomes painful.
How is the Laser used to remove moles?
It minimises the destruction of surrounding tissue and there can be some scarring. Laser treatment is for pigmented moles that are flat, as the light does not travel far enough for raised moles. The mole is removed to the surface of the skin so it is even with the rest of it.
