Are moles that fade in color and size suggestive of dysplasia?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have several moles that have been fading in color and size, with some becoming flat over months or maybe a couple of years. Recently, I have noticed how much the color has lessened over time. Some moles have less pigmentation around the edge but are not stark halos. This seems to be happening only on my face. I was wondering if this is problematic or normal? I have a previous history of dysplastic nevi. Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. It is acne rosacea with macular pigmentation. Do you have any aggravating factors like stress, spicy foods, alcohol, or hot beverages? Is there a history of photosensitivity, burning on exposure to the sun, prolonged exposure to the sun, or use of tanning beds? Kindly revert with the answers. Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

As per the above history and details, rosacea has been ruled out. I suggest the below plan. Try to avoid direct sun and mid-day sun. Practice sun protection measures. Apply a photostable sunscreen lotion daily at 9 am, 12 pm, and 3 pm for two months. Use a sunscreen lotion every day. Wear protective clothing that covers your arms and legs. Regarding dysplasia, the surface appears to be variegated with scaling. Is there any nail involvement, anemia, or low Hb (hemoglobin)? I suggest a self-examination to look for changes and detect them early and follow up for doubts. Melanoma occurs in areas exposed to sunlight. It could also be benign. If detected early, it can be treated with less scarring. Causes of skin cancer are long-term sun exposure, severe sunburn at an early age, repeated exposure to radiation, unusual scars on the skin, weakened immune system, frequent exposure to certain chemicals, or tanning beds. Signs and symptoms are a non-healing sore that starts as a patch or rash, a growth that bleeds easily and crusts, change in shape or size of existing marks or discoloration, formation of erosions, rough, scaly areas, itchy, painful, tender lesions, red bumps that are shiny and pearly, or a raised area with a central lump. Risk factors are being fair-skinned, exposure to harmful UV (ultraviolet) rays, certain skin conditions, a family history of skin cancer, age, and several moles on the body or dysplasia. I hope this helps. Thank you.