How To Identify Abnormal Moles

Abnormal mole is a term used to describe moles with an unusual appearance and those that possess irregular features when examined underneath a microscope. Abnormal moles are not always dangerous, but they should captivate more attention due to their increased risk of developing into a dangerous type of skin cancer referred to as melanoma. Abnormal moles can develop anywhere on an individual's body, so it is critical for everyone to know their skin and take account of all moles they have. The appearance of abnormal moles can vary extensively. Keeping track of moles on the body is the best way for an individual to identify any abnormalities, new growths, or other suspicious changes. With a cursory glance, it can be difficult or challenging to distinguish an abnormal mole from a normal mole.

The ABCDE method can be used to help detect warning signs of abnormal moles. Learn about this now.

Asymmetrical Shape

The first way to identify abnormal moles is by searching for an asymmetrical shape. Every month an individual should check all of their moles to see if they are symmetrical or have had a change in their symmetry. When a mole is not symmetrical, it means one half of the mole is not the same shape and does not match the other half of the mole. Both the top and bottom half of an individual's moles should match each other in shape, and the left and right sides of an individual's moles should match each other in shape. All moles from an individual's head to their toes should be checked for asymmetry and changes in symmetry over time. The areas in between the fingers and toes, as well as the areas on the armpits, on the scalp, and underneath the fingernails, should be checked once a month for any moles that exhibit any form of asymmetric shape. All moles found to be asymmetrical should be checked by a dermatologist to ensure they are not precancerous, though there is the occasional abnormal mole that does not develop into cancer that may not be perfectly symmetrical.

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Border

The second way to identify abnormal moles is by searching for irregular borders. An individual should check all of the moles on their body monthly for any changes in the shape of their borders. Any moles that display an abnormal or irregular shaped border are a cause to be concerned. An abnormal or irregular border is best defined as one that is not even, has a scalloped shape, is ambiguous, is undefined, has a notched shape, or any other border characteristic that appears odd in comparison to regular moles. It is of particular concern when a mole spills or fails to contain its pigment in the form of a border. The pigment of a mole may surpass where its border should be and spread into the skin that neighbors it. Moles considered normal have a round or oval shape with characteristic sharp and well-defined borders. A normal mole that is not of any concern will also have a border around its perimeter that is fairly uniform without any notches, projections, or indentations. Any mole that does not meet this border criterion or changes to where it no longer meets this criterion should be examined by a dermatologist.

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