What To Know About Atypical Moles

Atypical-Mole

Moles are a common skin formation caused by the clumping together of melanocytes, the skin cells responsible for skin color. Moles can become abnormal or atypical, having changes to the skin cells. Atypical moles are also known as dysplastic nevi and should be evaluated by a dermatologist. Dr. Michael Masters at Blue Ridge Dermatology in Clyde, NC, provides comprehensive dermatology services, including diagnosing and treating atypical moles.

How Your Dermatologist Can Help With Atypical Moles

Normal moles appear round, with well-defined borders, and uniform in shape. An atypical mole can be:

  • Large, with a diameter over 6 millimeters
  • Asymmetrical in shape with ragged borders
  • Recurring after previous removal
  • Itchy, painful, bleeding, or oozing
  • Changing in size, shape, or color

Atypical moles or dysplastic nevi could be a sign of skin cancer, and you should visit your dermatologist if you notice moles with any of the characteristics listed above. Your dermatologist may recommend removing a small tissue sample or the entire mole for a biopsy. During a biopsy, the tissue is examined at a microscopic level to detect abnormal skin cell changes.

If your dermatologist recommends removing the atypical mole, there are several recommended techniques, including:

Shaving the mole involves numbing the area and cutting out underneath and around the mole. This procedure can be performed on small moles and doesn’t usually require sutures.

Surgically removing the mole involves numbing the area and using a punching instrument to extract the entire mole. The incision is closed with small sutures.

Mohs micrographic surgery involves examining the tissue one layer at a time using a special microscope. This technique is a popular treatment option for atypical moles and all types of skin cancer.

Want To Know More About Atypical Moles?

To learn more about atypical moles and how your dermatologist can help, call Dr. Masters at Blue Ridge Dermatology in Clyde, NC. His office number is (828) 456-7343. Call today.