Worried about moles

Hello,

I have a question concerning a mole that I had several years ago. It was flat, dark brown and would probably be considered atypical. I was extremely worried at the time and I kept messing with/examining the spot until it came off and there was nothing left that I can see. I believe the mole had been there for about two or three years prior to doing this, and it was not itching or changing in any way at the time that it came off. All of this happened about 5 years ago. I guess I am just concerned about if it could turn into a melonoma now even though the spot itself is gone? I go to the dermatologist every year and have had moles taken off correctly before and they have been atypical/dysplastic but not cancer. I guess I am just really scared and paranoid right now-- I have myself convinced that I have melanoma! Any advice is appreciated. Thank you.

[Jasmina Jankicevic, MD, MSc, CCRP]

Welcome to the Dermatology Expert Forum!

Let us address your concern once again: if a dermatologist examines your skin, especially the area where that mole used to be, and does not find irregularities (or even benign skin changes because you wrote that "spot" has not reappeared), melanoma will be excluded.

Therefore, advice is to see a dermatologist (ask him/her to perform digital dermoscopy in addition to visual examination), and then stop being scared once and for all. In future, continue with regular mole checks and avoid unprotected exposure to UV rays.

In addition, please take a look at the American Academy of Dermatology website, section dedicated to melanoma prevention: http://www.aad.org/public/exams/abcde.html; http://www.aad.org/media/background/factsheets/fact_melanoma.html; http://www.aad.org/public/exams/self.html.


Wishing You Optimal Heath,
Dr. Jasmina Jankicevic