Melanocytic Nevus (Mole)

A melanocytic lesion, commonly called a mole, is a growth on the skin that develops when melanocytes (the pigment-producing cells that give skin its color) grow in clusters. Most people have between 10–40 moles, and they can appear anywhere on the body.

Moles are usually round or oval, uniform in color, and smaller than a pencil eraser. They may be flat or raised and are typically brown, tan, or pink. Most moles are benign (non-cancerous) and remain stable throughout life.

However, some moles can change over time or develop atypical features. Monitoring your moles regularly and looking for the ABCDE warning signs (Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter, and Evolving) is important for detecting melanoma or other skin cancers early.

Most moles are harmless, but you should schedule a skin exam if you notice:

These changes don’t always mean cancer, but they should be checked by a dermatology provider to rule out melanoma or other skin conditions.

Observation: Most moles are completely harmless and do not require treatment. Regular skin checks and self-monitoring are recommended.
Shave Removal or Surgical Excision: If a mole is bothersome cosmetically, becomes irritated, or raises concern for skin cancer, it can be safely removed in the office.
- Shave removal is often used for raised moles and leaves a flat result.
- Surgical excision (with stitches) may be recommended for larger or deeper moles, or when there is concern for melanoma.
Biopsy: If a mole shows concerning changes (asymmetry, irregular borders, multiple colors, growth, bleeding, or itching), a biopsy is performed to rule out skin cancer.

At INTEGRITY Skin & DermCare, mole removal is done with careful attention to detail to minimize scarring and ensure accurate diagnosis.

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