waht does atypical nevu means?????

[omar_s]

hi there i went to get a free screening for skin cancer. they look at a mole in my back and told me to get it remove or a biopsy. on the paper they put atypical nevu.. just want to know does that mean i got melanoma??

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

This does not mean that you have a melanoma.

A dysplastic nevus, (or naevus; pl. nevi or naevi) is an atypical mole; a mole whose appearance is different from that of common moles. Dysplastic nevi are generally larger than ordinary moles and have irregular and indistinct borders. Their color frequently is not uniform and ranges from pink to dark brown; they usually are flat, but parts may be raised above the skin surface.

Doctors believe that dysplastic nevi are more likely than ordinary moles to develop into a type of skin cancer called melanoma. Because of this, moles should be checked regularly by a doctor or nurse specialist, especially if they look unusual; grow larger; or change in color, or outline; or if any changes occur.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dysplastic_nevus

Let us know if you need any other information.

Regards.