Normal vs. Atypical Moles: How to Tell the Difference

While we all look different, we usually have at least one thing in common. Most adults have 10 or more moles. Medical experts call these nevi (or nevus, in the singular). 

Even though moles are so commonplace, each nevus is something worth monitoring. If any mole deviates from the norm, they could increase your skin cancer risk — or even be skin cancer themselves. 

That’s why Atlantic Dermatology recommends you perform regular skin checks at home and visit us for annual skin cancer screenings. Here at our office in Longs, South Carolina, Kenneth Warrick, MD, FAAD, and our team evaluate your moles and determine if any are potentially cancerous. 

Identifying atypical moles

Common moles are usually smaller than the size of the round base of a pencil eraser. They generally have a distinct edge and a smooth surface, whether flat or dome-shaped. They can be any single color ranging from pink to brown, but they generally match the color of the person’s other moles. 

Common moles aren’t a cause for concern unless they change shape or size.

Atypical moles are, as the name suggests, moles that don’t fit the common mole category. Also called dysplastic nevi, these moles can be characterized as being:

• Larger than a pencil eraser
• A mix of colors or a color that’s different from your other moles
• Scaly or bumpy in texture
• Irregular in shape
• Undefined on the edges

A mole doesn’t have to have all of these indicators to be considered atypical. Just one of these characteristics makes it a dysplastic nevus. 

When an atypical mole could be cancer

Generally, if you have a mole that doesn’t look like any of your other moles or ticks one of the boxes we outlined above, it’s worth having a specialist look at it. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Warrick and he can evaluate your nevus.

Even though atypical moles rarely turn into melanoma, they can. Plus, the fact that you have them increases your skin cancer risk. In fact, having more than five dysplastic nevi makes you ten times more likely to develop skin cancer. 

This is one instance in which acting sooner is absolutely better. If you have a melanoma, it’s critical you catch it before it has the chance to spread to nearby lymph nodes. People who do have a 94% five-year survival rate. 

All told, time is of the essence when it comes to addressing skin cancer. So, if you think you might have an atypical mole, don’t wait to make an appointment with our team. You can either call our office or use our online booking feature.