Benign moles and the risk of skin cancer

The likelihood of benign moles developing into malignant melanoma is low.   Doctors typically make recommendations for mole removals based on if the mole has changed in color or size.  If the mole exhibits any signs that indicate it might be malignant melanoma it should be removed and examined by a doctor.  Sometimes, people will remove a benign mole for aesthetic purposes or if it is causing them to be anxious. 

It is important to regularly get moles checked out by a doctor.  If a mole exhibits any of the following symptoms it should be checked out by a doctor immediately:

• change in width
• change in thickness
• change in shape
• change in color
• irregular outline
• itchiness
• soreness
• bleeding

Small moles (diameter less than 7mm diameter or the base of a pencil) have a lower chance of becoming malignant.

Malignant melanoma is curable if caught early enough.  If it has an opportunity to spread to other parts of the body it can be fatal.