The National Cancer Institute (NCI) indicates that most people have between 10 and 40 skin moles. A mole is a cluster of skin cells surrounded by tissue. They're usually pink, tan, brown or flesh-colored. They can lie flat on the skin or be raised. Moles are typically round or oval. As a person ages, she may notice that a mole changes color, shape or gets larger.
About Discolored Moles
Moles can change color when they're exposed to the sun because skin cells called melanocytes produce more pigment. Discolored, or multicolored, moles are considered atypical. The Merck Manual states, "People with even a few atypical moles have a slightly increased risk of developing melanoma." Their risk increases even more if they have a history of skin cancer in their family.
Prevalence
"About one out of every 10 people has at least one unusual (or atypical) mole that looks different from an ordinary mole," according to the NCI. The medical term used to describe atypical moles is dysplastic nevi. Most regular and atypical moles do not become cancerous; however, the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD) reports that they are considered pre-cancerous, which essentially means that they are considered high risk for developing into cancer compared to normal moles.
When to Be Concerned
Not all multicolored moles are atypical. Even normal moles can be darker than your regular complexion. Normal moles can even be raised and have rough edges. What is important in identifying a precancerous mole is if the mole changes shape or color. And the one distinguishing factor between a normal and precancerous mole, mentioned by NCI, AOCD and others, is the size. Once a mole is larger than a pencil eraser, a doctor should examine it.
Not a Mole
Many people see a spot on their skin and begin to panic. Moles have a very specific definition and do not include birthmarks, freckles and other skin marks. A birthmark is a red or brown spot that appears at birth or just after. They come in different shapes and sizes. Age spots typically appear on the face, chest and hands of people after the age of 50--but may start earlier depending on how much skin exposure they had in their life. Age spots are larger and more irregularly shaped than freckles. A melasma resembles a brown stain. It appears on the face and chest and is most prominent during the second half of pregnancy or on women who take oral contraceptives. Sun exposure can change the color of age spots and melasma.
Track Your Moles
Though most moles do not develop into melanoma, cancer is still a concern. Therefore, we should periodically examine our bodies for any odd marks. The NCI recommends using a hand-held mirror to inspect hard-to-see areas such as your back and head. Also check the groin, the palms, the fingernails, the soles of the feet, the toenails and the area between the toes. Take stock of the moles you have so you know if they change color or shape or get larger. You should also check moles during hormonal changes such as pregnancy and menopause, after adolescence and during puberty.
