Moles
MOLE (NEVI) REMOVAL
A mole is a skin growth that can vary in color, ranging from flesh-colored to brown or black. These skin growths have the potential to emerge anywhere on the skin, either individually or in clusters. Most moles tend to make their appearance within the first two decades of a person's life, although some may surface later in life. It's considered normal for an individual to have between 10 and 40 moles by the time they reach adulthood.
CAUSE OF MOLES
Clustering of melanocytes (skin cells responsible for pigment production)
Heredity (genetic predisposition)
Excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays from sunlight
Hormonal changes during adolescence and pregnancy
SYMPTOMS
- Variation in color, ranging from flesh-colored, brown, to black
- Round or oval shape
- Presence of a pigmented skin growth
- Often appear during childhood or early adulthood
- Some moles may change over time, becoming raised or changing color
- Moles may darken with sun exposure, during adolescence, or during pregnancy
TREATMENT
Mole treatments can include mole removal using a surgical tool, laser treatments, electrocautery, cryotherapy, and additional testing such as a skin biopsy for further analysis. A dermatologist is vital in the proper evaluation and treatment of moles.