Does a growing mole suggest melanoma?

Question

Hello doctor,

I was born with this dark mole in my ear. I almost have never been able to see it because of its placement in my ear. But I have noticed that in the past few days, I can see it just by turning my head a little in the mirror. I am wondering if it is growing or perhaps changing. I had my mother look at it and she says it looks the same. Nonetheless, I would like to know if it appears in any way troublesome, if the coloring or shape looks bad, or if it might be melanoma I should get checked out.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Skin cancer occurs in areas exposed to sunlight. It could be benign or malignant. If detected early, it can be treated quickly with less scarring. The type depends on which layer of skin it is arising from (SCC- squamous cell carcinoma, BCC- basal cell carcinoma, or, Melanoma).

Signs and symptoms-

A non-healing sore that started as a patch or rash.
A growth that bleeds easily and crusts over, changes in shape or size of existing marks or discolorations, formation of an ulcer, rough and scaly areas.
Lesions are painful, tender, itchy, red bumps, shiny and pearly.
A raised area with a central lump.

Causes-

Long-term sun exposure.
Severe sunburn at an early age.
Repeated exposure to radiation.
Unusual scars on skin.
Weakened immune system.
Frequent exposure to certain chemicals, and tanning beds.

Risk factors-

Being fair-skinned.
Exposure to UV (ultra-violet) radiation.
Certain skin conditions.
A family history of skin cancer.
Elderly population.
Many moles in the body.
Dysplastic nevi ( also known as atypical moles, are unusual-looking benign moles that have an irregular shape, and uneven color, and are generally larger than common moles).

Prevention-

Avoid mid-day sun.
Use photostable sunscreen lotion, even on cloudy days.
Wear protective clothing that covers your arms and legs, and avoid tanning booths.
Examine the skin to look for changes and detect them early.

Are any of the above-mentioned signs, symptoms, or risks noticed? Do reply.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

As per the attached image (attachments removed to protect patient identity), it appears to be dysplastic nevi grade 2 (atypical moles are graded based on the degree of abnormality in their cells). It appears benign nevi. If any changes are noted in the lesion after observation like changes in size, shape, border, margins, or color, order a biopsy to rule out malignancy. No need to worry at present. Applying photostable sunscreen daily at 9 am,12 pm,3 pm. Use the 2-finger tip unit method while application of sunscreen.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.