Concerned about a mole

[pixie10]

Hi there - since moving back to Canada it's been a couple years since I've seen a dermatologist and I finally got a referral from my PCP but the appointment isn't for another two months. I'm concerned about a mole on my back that I believe developed last summer - it seems to be mostly dark brown with a bit of light brown on the bottom. The only way I can get in sooner to a doctor is if I call in every so often to check for any openings but I am prone to anxiety about these types of things. As a 24 year old who's fair skinned I've had a few bad sunburns growing up but generally remember to put on sunscreen with at least 30SPF. I guess my question is, if there is a likelihood that I have or might develop skin cancer, how fast does it spread? And if I upload a picture of the mole here would someone be able to tell just by looking at it if it's something to be worried about? Any help or reassurance would be greatly appreciated, I don't know who else to ask.

[pixie10]

Hi Dr. Kaur,

Thank you for your reply! None of my freckles/moles itch or have any of those symptoms so I hope there is nothing to be concerned about. Most of the 'atypical' ones I may have are round with some asymmetricalness. I will comment here again in May when I get checked out.

Thanks again!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms it looks like an atypical mole because of the color variation. It does not sound like a melanoma. Melanomas are usually >6 mm in size, with irregular borders ,asymmetrical and dark in color. You need to 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.Otherwise it should be left as such.

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 doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.