General Description
Birthmarks and moles are lesions composed of
specialized pigment cells. A mole may be considered a birthmark that appears on
the skin surface later in life. The term “nevus” is applied to both entities.
Nevi
are common to all people, and someone searching long and hard enough will find
at least twelve or more on most individuals. Some nevi may be present at birth,
but the majority arise in young adulthood. It is not uncommon for someone in
this age group to have forty or more nevi. A large number of them disappear
with advancing age.
Nevi
come in a variety of different sizes, shapes, and colors. They range in size
from pinpoint specks to extensive lesions that may cover the entire back. (This
type of birthmark is fortunately very rare). Their color runs the spectrum from
blue to tan to pitch black. Some are perfectly fiat, others elevated and
dome-shaped. Their surface may be smooth or rough, and some may even have hairs
growing out of them.
Medical Treatments
Many nevi are best left alone. Some occur in areas
where they are easily traumatized or cosmetically unacceptable, and these can
be removed quite simply. Rarely, a mole may turn into a potentially lethal skin
cancer (melanoma), and it is for this reason that nevi should be checked on a
periodic basis. The following changes warrant immediate evaluation by a
dermatologist:
1. any rapid increase in size;
2. any changes in coloration, especially red
or whitish hues;
3. the
development of notched, irregular borders;
4. the
onset of itching; or
5. the
onset of spontaneous bleeding.
All
persons with a family history of melanoma or a history of repeated sunburns
should have their skin examined on a regular basis.
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