Anatomy & Physiology
12 March 2011
Moles, sometimes known as nevi, come in many different shapes, sizes, and color variations. Although most are harmless, some can develop into a form of cancer called Melanoma and there are a few things you should know to help lower your risk for developing this serious form of cancer.
Moles are growths on the skin which occur when skin cells called melanocytes, grow in clusters instead of spreading throughout the skin. There are three different types of moles. The first type, acquired moles, develop between early childhood and early adulthood. They are usually a shade of brown and can be as small as a pinhead or as large as a pencil eraser. Acquired moles very rarely become cancerous and are considered “normal moles.”
The second type of mole is an atypical mole. These are usually larger than acquired moles and vary in color from tan to dark brown. Most have irregular borders and sometimes they have notches. Atypical moles are considered pre-cancerous but don’t always turn into melanoma.
The last type is the Congenital Mole, which is one that you are born with. Only about one in one hundred babies are born with congenital moles. Their size can be anywhere from ¼ inch to large enough to cover an entire limb and their color can vary from a reddish-tan to almost black, with most being a shade of brown. Research has shown that in many cases, congenital moles do become cancerous.
There are ways to lower your chances of developing melanoma. People with a family history of melanoma and people with over 50 moles should be especially careful. Doctors suggest that you pay attention to your moles for signs of change in color, shape, size, or outline. You should also limit your exposure to UV radiation from either the sun or a tanning bed. In many cases, UV radiation is one of the main causes of melanoma.
If you notice any of these changes you should contact your doctor and have... [continues]
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