Changing mole or spot (needs checking)

Overview

ABCDE: Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolving.

Use the ABCDE check: Asymmetry, uneven Border, more than one Color, Diameter bigger than a pencil eraser, and Evolving (changing).

An 'ugly duckling' mole that looks different from your others is also worth checking.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• New or changing mole
• Mole or spot that's new or changing

Less common

• Itching or bleeding mole

When to get medical care

Causes

Sun exposure, genes.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Fair skin
• Many moles

Possible complications

• Melanoma

Diagnosis

A dermatologist checks the spot.

The exam

Skin check.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Biopsy:

Treatment

Watch your skin.

Self-care

• Check skin monthly
• Use sunscreen
• Avoid tanning beds

Prevention

To protect skin:

• Sunscreen
• Avoid tanning beds

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• People with many moles or family history: Yearly skin checks.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some skin medicines, like isotretinoin and retinoid creams, aren't safe in pregnancy.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Early treatment works.

Melanoma found early is very curable.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• How often should I have a skin check?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Changing mole or spot (needs checking)