Question
A melanoma may develop from a normal mole which then changes over time. A melanoma normally changes in shape, size and colour, sometimes slowly or sometimes very quickly.
If a mole becomes very black, bleeds or have irregular borders and different colours within, do speed-dial your dermatologist office for an appointment.
If you notice that your mole has increased in size, changed its shape or color, started bleeding or became itchy, or has started “sprouting” new moles around it, I would recommend that you consult a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon who would be able to advise if any further investigations are required. Some options that may be proposed include a biopsy of the mole to confirm the nature of the mole (whether it is benign, pre-cancerous or cancerous).
Most people will develop small brown moles that are harmless. They may be flat, dome shaped or bumpy looking. These moles usually will appear throughout their childhood, but some new moles may appear in adulthood or after pregnancy. Most of the times, these moles appear due to our genetic predisposition. However, sun exposure can also trigger new moles. We pay special attention to moles because sometimes these can change and melanoma (a dangerous type of skin cancer) may arise from an existing mole. If you have >50 moles on your body, you may be at a higher risk of developing melanoma.
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