Mole Checks & Skin Cancer Screening in Kerrville, TX
What Are Moles?
Moles are very common skin growths that most people develop during childhood or early adulthood. They typically appear as brown or black spots that may be flat or raised, smooth or rough, single or in clusters. Moles form when melanocytes (the pigment-producing cells of the skin) grow in concentrated groups rather than spreading evenly.
Most moles are harmless and measure less than one-quarter inch in size. While they often appear before the age of 20, new moles can still develop later in life. Over time, some moles may fade or disappear completely.
At Precision Dermatology in Kerrville, TX, our board-certified dermatologist provides comprehensive mole checks and skin cancer screenings to ensure that any concerning changes are detected early.
Types of Moles
There are several different types of moles, and understanding which type you have can help determine whether it requires monitoring or removal.
Congenital Nevi
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Present at birth.
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Larger congenital moles carry a higher risk of developing into melanoma (skin cancer).
Atypical Dysplastic Nevi
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Irregularly shaped and usually larger than average.
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May have uneven coloring, dark centers, and irregular borders.
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Increase the risk of melanoma, especially if multiple are present.
Common Acquired Moles
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The most frequent type, usually appearing in childhood or young adulthood.
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Typically small, round, and uniform in color.
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Generally harmless, but should still be monitored for changes.
When to Worry About a Mole
Most moles are harmless, but some changes can signal the early stages of skin cancer, including melanoma. It’s important to perform monthly self-checks and schedule a professional skin exam if you notice:
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A mole that changes in size, shape, or color
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New moles that appear after age 30
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A mole that becomes itchy, painful, scaly, or begins to bleed
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Multiple or irregularly shaped moles (especially if you have 50 or more)
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A mole that looks noticeably different from your others (“the ugly duckling” sign)
At Precision Dermatology in Kerrville, TX, our dermatologist provides thorough mole evaluations and skin cancer screenings to give you peace of mind and, if needed, early treatment.
The ABCDEs of Mole Evaluation
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends using the ABCDE rule as a simple way to monitor moles for warning signs of melanoma:
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A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.
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B – Border: Edges are irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined.
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C – Color: The mole is uneven in color (shades of brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue).
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D – Diameter: Larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser).
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E – Evolving: Any mole that changes in size, shape, color, or symptoms over time.
If a mole meets any of these criteria, it’s important to have it checked by a dermatologist as soon as possible.
Early detection saves lives. If you notice a suspicious mole, schedule an appointment with Precision Dermatology in Kerrville, TX today for a professional skin exam and peace of mind.
