Almost everyone has some mole – and not just one. Typically, the human body has several to dozens of moles, but for some, the number can reach even hundreds. It’s important to understand the different types of skin moles and how to distinguish among them.
What are the types of moles
Fortunately, moles are usually harmless skin changes. However, if a new, concerning mole appears on our skin, it’s advisable to have it examined to rule out the possibility of developing serious diseases. What types of moles can occur on the skin?
Pigmented moles
The most common type of moles. Many pigmented moles are congenital, meaning they were present at birth. However, this does not mean that pigmented moles cannot be acquired later in life. Several kinds of pigmented moles include, among others, moles of:
- globular type
- starburst type
- homogeneous blue
- with a specific location
- with distinctive features
Unclassified melanocyte proliferations also stand out.
It is important to remember that congenital moles carry a higher risk of malignancy than acquired ones – especially giant moles (over 20 centimeters in size).
Spitz nevus
The Spitz nevus mainly occurs in children and appears as a single bump, no larger than 10 centimeters in diameter. Spitz-type moles are found on the faces and lower limbs. Although they are usually brown, such moles can often have other colors – for example. They initially grow quite quickly, but over time, their size often stabilizes. Sometimes, they can turn into atypical forms that require medical supervision.
Blue nevus
The characteristic feature of a blue nevus is, of course, its unusual color. These moles appear early in childhood and may also be congenital. Surgical removal is recommended if they reach a large size or are located in unusual areas – e.g., on the hairy scalp. In adults, such moles are always excised completely because of the risk of transformation into melanoma.
Clarke’s nevus
This is usually a harmless mole in the form of a slightly raised brown birthmark. Its size generally does not exceed 1 centimeter. It is believed to be genetically determined or related to hormonal issues. It forms as a result of the accumulation of melanocyte cells, which are responsible for producing melanin.
Becker’s nevus
Becker’s nevus is characterized by an irregular shape and a pale brown color. It is sometimes covered with tough, dark hair. While initially, the height of the nevus is not very prominent, it quickly enlarges to several centimeters. Despite this, it is a very benign mole, and malignant transformation is rare. It should be noted that acne-like changes can occur around it. It mostly appears in men, and its development is probably hormone-related.
Why is it important to examine all types of moles?
Although the frequency of moles transforming into melanoma is about 1 in 30,000 cases, it’s crucial to regularly check each newly appeared mole. Why? Because it is impossible to predict which one will become malignant. Remember, for melanoma, as with any other malignant tumor, early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. The sooner melanoma is diagnosed, the higher the likelihood of complete recovery.