The characteristics of moles that are msot concerning for melanoma include asymmetry (i.e., irregular shape or borders), bleeding or itching, inconsistent coloring (especially patches of white, red, blue, or very dark black pigmentation within a generally lighter colored mole), increasing size, inconsistent height (some areas more elevated than others), and spread of the mole's pigment (color) into the surrounding skin. Please also note that some melanomas are not pigmented at all (amelanotic melanoma), and these melanomas may be the same color as the surrounding skin.
Basically, if your mole has any of the above features, or appears to be changing in any other way, then it should be biopsied by a dermatologist or surgeon to rule-out melanoma.
Sincerely,
Robert A. Wascher, MD, FACS
DISCLAIMER:
"Ask a Doctor" questions are answered by certified physicians and other medical professionals who volunteer
their time on eHealth Forum.
For more information about experts participating in the "Ask a Doctor" Network, please visit our
medical experts page.
You may also visit our Skin Cancer , for moderated patient to patient support and information.
The information provided on eHealth Forum is designed to improve, not replace, the relationship between a patient and his/her own physician.
Personal consultation(s) with a qualified medical professional is the proper means for diagnosing any medical condition.
