How can I treat an inflamed mole, and when should I be worried?

Doctor's Answers 2

Dr Colin Theng

Dermatologist

Get Quote

Thank you for the question.

In general, we worry about a mole when it shows the following features:

1. Asymmetry

2. Borders are irregular

3. Colour is variegate or uneven

4. Diameter >0.6m

5. Evolution - the mole is enlarging or bleeding

If there are changes to a mole such as bleeding and crusting, and there are concerns of skin cancer, the mole can be excised and sent for histological testing to rule out a skin cancer or melanoma.

Mole excision is done under local anaesthesia. If in doubt, do visit your doctor/dermatologist who will do a proper examination and advise you further on the need for excision.

Dr Colin Theng

Dermatologist

Get Quote

Thank you for the question.

In general, we worry about a mole when it shows the following features:

1. Asymmetry

2. Borders are irregular

3. Colour is variegate or uneven

4. Diameter >0.6m

5. Evolution - the mole is enlarging or bleeding

If there are changes to a mole such as bleeding and crusting, and there are concerns of skin cancer, the mole can be excised and sent for histological testing to rule out a skin cancer or melanoma.

Mole excision is done under local anaesthesia. If in doubt, do visit your doctor/dermatologist who will do a proper examination and advise you further on the need for excision.

Similar Questions

Skin, Hair & Nails

Is it possible for a cherry angioma to develop into a skin cancer?

Cherry angiomas are benign prolieration of blood vessels and do not develop into cancer. They usually do not bleed easily unless thay are traumatized. It is also unusual for cherry angiomas to be painful when pressed. Another cause of a vascular bump that bleeds easily is a pyogenic granuloma. This may develop following trauma to the skin. Cherry angiomas usually do not require treatment. However, if it continues to bleed and is painful, you should consider visiting your dermatologist or doctor to get it checked out. They can easily be removed by electrosurgical ablation.

Answered By

Dermatologist

Where is the best place for mole removal in Singapore?

There are many clinics in Singapore that do mole removal. Private clinics are usually a little more pricey than government hospitals such as National Skin Center. However, National Skin Center’s waiting list is usually very long, can be up to 3-6 months. The more important factor to consider is to get your mole assessed properly before getting it removed. Laser removal over many sessions may not be a good way to remove a mole because the risk of mole recurrence can be high, and the mole cannot be assessed in the lab for any signs of skin cancer.

Read full answer