Unusual Mole?

[Rosy57]

I have a mole on my right shoulder that fell off (or peeled off) last year. It has since grown back to its original size and shape. It is elevated (like before) but not itchy. Is this normal or worrisome?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It is not uncommon for moles to grow again. However keep an eye on this mole. If you notice changes in the mole's/mark’s color, height, size or shape, you should have a dermatologist evaluate it. You also should have it checked if it bleeds, oozes, itches, appear scaly, or become tender or painful.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[capturethis]

I think it depends on what it looks like.  This is from Mayoclinic.com:

Unusual moles that may indicate melanoma
Characteristics of unusual moles that may indicate melanomas or other skin cancers follow the A-B-C-D-E guide developed by the American Academy of Dermatology:

    * A is for asymmetrical shape. Look for moles with irregular shapes, such as two very different-looking halves.
    * B is for irregular border. Look for moles with irregular, notched or scalloped borders — characteristics of melanomas.
    * C is for changes in color. Look for growths that have many colors or an uneven distribution of color.
    * D is for diameter. Look for new growth in a mole larger than about 1/4 inch (6 millimeters).
    * E is for evolving. Look for changes over time, such as a mole that grows in size or that changes color or shape. Moles may also evolve to develop new signs and symptoms, such as new itchiness or bleeding.

Other suspicious changes in a mole may include:

    * Scaliness
    * Itching
    * Spreading of pigment from the mole into the surrounding skin
    * Oozing or bleeding

Cancerous (malignant) moles vary greatly in appearance. Some may show all of the changes listed above, while others may have only one or two unusual characteristics.