Suspicious Mole

[tulanejosh]

During a recent visit to a new Dermatologist (her assistent did my actual screening), they marked a mole on my stomach for observation.  They were concerened about some small brown dots in it.  This mole is a mole i have had since i was a child, and it hasn't increased in size, and while i never regularly examined it, the small dots are the color i have always associated with this mole (dark brown). In fact, without them, it would be a much lighter brown.  

They did tell me that it wasn't too worrisome to them when i asked if we shoudl just remove and biopsy instead of waiting 6 mos, and said we should just wait.

Nevertheless, i am freaking out. Rationally, i know that i dont think i have much to worry about since i dont think it has changed at all, but still.  Do i have real cause for concern?

[Rowena Santos, MD]

Hi,

If the mole has not changed in appearance as you said, you should not worry too much. However it is also important that you know the ABCDEs of melanoma: asymmetry, border, color, diameter, and elevation. A mole that is more than one hue is usually suspicious and needs to be evaluated by a doctor. It is also recommended that you go back after the observation period. You can read more about this through this link: http://cancer.about.com/od/skincancermelanoma/p/abcdeskincancer.htm

Take care and regards.