What is the difference between a regular mole and a melanocytic nevus?

Question

Hello doctor,

I noticed this weird mole on my back that seems to have changed shape recently. It has irregular edges and different shades of brown. I am freaking out that it might be melanoma. I know I should probably see a dermatologist, but the waiting list is months long. Is this something that needs urgent attention? I have loads of other moles and freckles, too. How do I know which ones are dangerous? Should I be doing regular skin checks? What is the difference between a regular mole and a melanocytic nevus?

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

It would be of great help if you could send a picture of the mole to evaluate the changes and decide if it is an emergency to see a dermatologist. Anyway, in either case, if the mole has changed its shape and color, it means there is an urgent need to see a dermatologist and decide the best treatment. To help identify potentially dangerous moles, use the ABCDE rule:

Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.
Border: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges.
Color: Variations in color, including different shades of brown, tan, or black.
Diameter: Melanomas are usually larger (about the size of a pencil eraser) when diagnosed, but they can be smaller.
Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or elevation of a mole or new symptoms such as bleeding, itching, or crusting

Self-examinations are the best thing you can do when monitoring moles on your skin: Conduct regular self-examinations of your skin to check for new moles or changes in existing ones. Use a mirror or ask someone to help you examine hard-to-see areas like your back. Track any changes and note the appearance of new moles.

Regular Moles appearance: Common moles are typically uniform in color, round or oval in shape, and less than 6 mm in diameter. They may be flat or raised and are usually benign.
Melanocytic Nevi: Melanocytic nevi, or simply nevi, are clusters of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) in the skin. They can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired (developing later in life).

Most nevi are benign, but some can develop into melanoma, particularly if they show changes as described above. Preventive measures to consider include:

Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure by using sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours.
Regularly check your skin and keep records of any changes to discuss with your dermatologist.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.