A common mole is usually smaller than about 5 millimeters wide (about 1/4 inch, the width of a pencil eraser). Atypical moles are pigmented lesions that, although benign, exhibit some of the clinical and histologic features of malignant melanoma. Having many moles: Most moles will never cause any problems, but someone who has many moles is more likely to develop melanoma. A small percentage of dysplastic nevi may develop into melanomas. Wise J. Your doctor knows your situation, so ask them how these numbers might apply to you. Dysplastic moles do not usually itch, bleed, or become inflamed. You can help reduce your risk of cancer by making healthy choices like eating right, staying active and not smoking. Rarely, they become cancerous. This common mole is about 5 millimeters in diameter (the width of a new pencil eraser). At the American Cancer Society, we have a vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. National Cancer Institute We can also help you find other free or low-cost resources available. Available Every Minute of Every Day. Patient information: A handout on this topic is available at https://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/skin-cancer/diagnosis-tests/atypical-moles.html. Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention 2013; 22(4):528532. Skin cancers can begin when this damage affects the DNA of genes that control skin cell growth. The primary goal of biopsy is to rule out melanoma in patients who develop suspicious lesions during surveillance. Still, its important to know about the risk factors for melanoma because there may be things you can do to lower your risk of getting it. However, about 5% of melanoma cases arise in other types of tissue. Mayo Clinic. These patients usually have an increased number of typical melanocytic naevi appearing in childhood, with AMN first appearing in adolescence. Dinulos JGH. Melanin is a natural pigment that gives your skin its color. This material may not otherwise be downloaded, copied, printed, stored, transmitted or reproduced in any medium, whether now known or later invented, except as authorized in writing by the AAFP. What does all this mean for you as a patient? The earlier that melanoma is detected and removed, the more likely that treatment will be successful. Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is a rare, inherited condition that affects skin cells ability to repair damage to their DNA. The SEER database uses a simplified grouping scheme, with localized, regional and distant stages. Whites, particularly those with red or blonde hair, green or blue eyes or with pale skin that burns or freckles easily, are at higher risk. Accessed at https://www.uptodate.com/contents/risk-factors-for-the-development-of-melanoma on June 10, 2019. WebThose diagnosed with dysplastic nevi have an excellent prognosis. To give a sense of relative tumor sizes in stage 1 melanoma, the NCI website notes that a sharp pencil point is about 1 millimeter thick. Remember, a dysplastic nevus is a mole that exists in the spectrum between a benign mole and melanoma. However, people with dark skin tend to be diagnosed with more advancedmelanoma than people with fair skin (5). American Cancer Society. Cancer Information, Answers, and Hope. For people with more than five dysplastic nevi, doctors may conduct a skin exam once a year because of the moderately increased risk of melanoma. In the dermal nevus all of the melanocytes are in the dermis. Dermal nevi are clinically manifested as pale soft wrinkled polyps on the skin. This sequence is the normal life pattern of a nevus. Dermal nevi can eventually drop off the skin. Dysplastic nevi do not follow this pattern of maturation and self-destruction. A guide to COVID-19 and wellness from the health team at U.S. News & World Report. The staging system is detailed in the AJCC Cancer Staging Manual released by the American Joint Committee on Cancer. At this point, imaging tests such as CT, PET or MRI scans and ultrasound exams are typically used to check for malignant tumors in other parts of the body. Some people have only a couple of dysplastic nevi, but other people have more than 10. A dysplastic nevus with a black bump that was not there 18 months earlier. Keeping an eye out for any changes to your moles may be a critical way to prevent skin cancer. Become a volunteer, make a tax-deductible donation, or participate in a fundraising event to help us save lives. Patients who notice visible skin changes, or maybe a significant other observes a suspicious growth on areas like the back, can prompt a timely visit to a primary care physician or dermatologist. Moles (nevi) are a common type of skin growth. Regular skin checks, both self-checks and those done by health-care professionals, are key to preventing complications from melanoma. The only way to diagnose melanoma is to remove tissue and check it for cancer cells. Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology 2022; 177:103754. Schedule regular skin checks by a health-care provider, varying in frequency based on the number of nevi and the degree of your melanoma risk. People should tell their doctor if they see any of the following changes in a dysplastic nevus (2): People with dysplastic nevi should have their skin examined by a doctor regularly (2, 4). A melanoma with three partsa dark brown or black area on the left, a red bump on the right, and an area that is lighter than the skin at the top. Others may have only one or two unusual characteristics. Only rarely does a dysplastic nevus turn into melanoma (1, 3). How to recognize melanoma (Skin cancer). Tax ID Number: 13-1788491. They often appear as small, dark brown spots and are caused by clusters of pigment-forming cells (melanocytes). To prevent melanoma, you can reduce modifiable risk factors like sun exposure. It's your valuable health care visit, so get answers that matter to you. All of our stories rely on multiple, independent sources and experts in the field, such as medical doctors and licensed nutritionists. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. Has any changes to the texture, especially if it becomes scaly or dry. The more dysplastic nevi you have, the higher the risk for melanoma. This page was updated on October 19, 2022. If a close relative has had melanoma, this syndrome is referred to as familial atypical multiple mole melanoma syndrome (FAMMM), and it signals a significant lifetime risk of developing melanoma. Copyright 2015 by the American Academy of Family Physicians. Together, were making a difference and you can, too. American Academy of Dermatology. The melanoma is about 15 millimeters wide, or about as wide as a tube of lip balm. At the American Cancer Society, we have a vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. Ocular melanoma 5-year survival rates: They produce melanin, the natural pigment that gives skin its color. Mayo Clinic; 2021. Here you'll find in-depth information on specific cancer types including risk factors, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment options. Stay protected and up-to-date with the latest information. Most cases start in the skin and are called cutaneous melanoma. It is round or oval, has a smooth surface with a distinct edge, and is often dome-shaped. This contribution provides an overview of the history, epidemiology, genetic This is likely not necessary because clinical recurrence of lesions with mild to moderate atypia extending to the margin is extremely rare on prolonged follow-up. Basic stages are further subdivided into various levels (like stage 3a or stage 3b). In addition, many doctors recommend that people with dysplastic nevi check their skin once a month (2, 4). Chapter 92: Cutaneous Melanoma. Dysplastic nevi that are severe may look extremely similar to early melanoma. People should tell their doctor if they find a new mole or a change in an existing mole. UpToDate. However, studies have shown that a deep shave biopsy performed by an experienced clinician using the saucerization technique can usually achieve a depth that allows a valid appraisal of penetration depth, and it may even be preferable to punch biopsy when melanoma makes up only a small portion of a larger lesion. The table below summarizes some differences between moles and cancer. With those caveats in mind, a prevalence of 2% to 8% in fair-skinned persons is a valid estimate.3,4 In persons with skin of color, the prevalence of atypical moles is significantly lower (5% to 21% of the fair-skinned rate). Although anyone can develop melanoma, people with the following risk factors have an increased risk of melanoma: People can protect their skin from the sun by following the tips on NCI's Sunlight risk factor page. Clinicians have traditionally been advised against performing shave biopsy of skin lesions when there is significant suspicion of melanoma, out of concern that this technique could make accurate determination of lesion thickness difficult and that scarring could obscure the development of a recurrent lesion. privacy practices. Melanoma is diagnosed under a microscope based on a variety of features, in particular tumor depth or thickness, says Dr. Charlotte Ariyan, a surgeon and melanoma expert at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. Preparing for your first cancer appointment can be overwhelming. People with XP have a high risk of developing melanoma and other skin cancers when they are young, especially on sun-exposed areas of their skin. Whether doctors advise removing a congenital nevus depends on several factors including its size, location, and color. Although periodic self-examinations and physician examinations may increase detection of thin melanomas amenable to surgery, it may be that close surveillance detects more slow-growing lesions with an inherently favorable prognosis.10,13,14,2225 Consequently, the optimal timing for follow-up examinations has not been determined. This content does not have an Arabic version. DeVita, Hellman, and Rosenbergs Cancer: Principles and Practice of Oncology. Youre more likely to develop dysplastic nevi if you have: People with very high numbers of dysplastic nevi may have dysplastic nevus syndrome to blame. Melanoma is more likely to occur in older people, but it is also found in younger people. In advancedmelanoma, the texture of the mole may change. Also check the genital area and between the buttocks. Accessed Oct. 11, 2021. 6th ed. The increased risk might be because of a shared family lifestyle of frequent sun exposure, a family tendency to have fair skin, certain gene changes (mutations) that run in a family, or a combination of these factors. Although common moles are not cancerous, people who have many small moles or several large ones have an increased risk of developing melanoma (1). Rather, experts advise that they do the following: A person who has already had melanoma has a higher risk of getting melanoma again. Common Moles, Dysplastic Nevi, and Risk of Melanoma, in 20172018, the lifetime risk of being diagnosed with melanoma, familial atypical multiple mole melanoma syndrome, Intraocular (Eye) MelanomaPatient Version, Moles to Melanoma: Recognizing the ABCDE Features, Skin Cancer (Including Melanoma)Patient Version, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Several photos of common moles are shown here, andWhat Does a Mole Look Like? They may contain hairs or become raised or wrinkled. Usually uneven in color. One reason is that very few dysplastic nevi or common moles turn into melanoma (1, 3). information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of
Mayo Clinic; 2021. In: Niederhuber JE, Armitage JO, Doroshow JH, Kastan MB, Tepper JE, eds. American Academy of Dermatology. Moles. Most people dont need dysplastic nevi removed because these arent cancerous. Some risk factors, like smoking and excess sun exposure, can be changed. A new crayon point is about 2 millimeter thick. People with weakened immune systems (from certain diseases or medical treatments) are more likely to develop many types of skin cancer, including melanoma. This is localized melanoma. The skin on the surface becomes dry or scaly. A dysplastic mole appears different to a typical mole in size, shape, and colour. Its also called melanoma in situ, referring to abnormal cells that remain in the place where they first formed. Lisa Esposito, Amir Khan and Christine ComizioFeb. These growths are usually found above the waist on areas exposed to the sun. The American Cancer Society is a qualified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Clinics in Dermatology 2009; 27(1):103115. Many doctors recommend that congenital nevi that are not removed should be examined regularly by a dermatologist and that the patient should be taught how to do monthly skin self-exams. UV radiation has been linked to increased melanoma risk. A common mole usually has an even color of pink, tan, or brown. In contrast, a policy of biopsying every atypical mole would require nearly 2,000 biopsies per melanoma diagnosed, while failing to diagnose the 85% of melanomas that did not arise from an atypical mole and leading to an untenable cost-benefit ratio.13,14,28. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. 7th ed. Data Sources: A PubMed search was completed in Clinical Queries using the key terms atypical moles, atypical mole syndrome, Clark nevus, dysplastic nevus, FAMMM, FAMMM syndrome, and melanoma screening. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays is a major risk factor for most melanomas. It could be flat like a freckle or protrude like a mole. Whites with red or blond hair, blue or green eyes, or fair skin that freckles or burns easily are at increased risk. A common mole is a growth on the skin that develops when pigment cells (melanocytes) grow in clusters. Accessed Oct. 8, 2021. Cyr PR. If the examination is completed by an experienced clinician, the sensitivity and specificity for the detection of melanoma are as high as 96% and 98%, respectively.1315 However, the sensitivity and specificity of each item alone vary widely, creating the possibility of overdiagnosis or underdiagnosis. Atypical moles with changes suggestive of malignant melanoma should be biopsied, using an excisional method, if possible. In fact, between 1995 and 2014, head and neck melanoma cases increased by more than 50% among people from infants to adults under 40, according to a study published online October 3, 2019, in the journal JAMA OtolaryngologyHead & Neck Surgery. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which
In early stages, it may be treated through relatively simple surgery, but advanced stages can be lethal. Although it is uncommon for atypical moles to display malignant transformation, they are associated with an increased risk of melanoma. https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection. developing into a melanoma) compared with a normal looking Accessed Oct. 8, 2021. information submitted for this request. For example, if the 5-year relative survival rate for a specific stage of melanoma of the skin is 90%, it means that people who have that cancer are, on average, about 90% as likely as people who dont have that cancer to live for at least 5 years after being diagnosed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier; 2020. The lifetime risk in patients with FAMMM syndrome approaches 100%.8,9 Followed over five years, one-half of atypical moles remained unchanged, 15% developed increasing atypia, and 35% regressed or disappeared.8,10,11 Studies have reported a 0.5% to 46% rate of progression to melanoma, with this wide range attributable to differing diagnostic criteria.8,11 Still, the key message to convey to patients is that although most atypical moles do not become melanoma, patients with a high number of atypical moles have an increased lifetime risk of melanoma.3,12 Thus, it is important to be equally vigilant for changes in existing moles and new lesions. All rights reserved. However, if you have a history of dysplastic nevi you have a greater risk of developing melanoma in the future. About one in 10 people in the United States have at least one dysplastic nevus, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI) . One approach to address this is to add the ugly duckling concept when observing persons with multiple moles. Curiel-Lewandrowski C. Risk factors for the development of melanoma. Review/update the
Accounts for only about 1% of all skin cancer cases, 99,780 new cases of melanoma in the United States expected in 2022(, May be pink, tan, brown, black (in people with dark skin), or a color that is very close to a persons normal skin tone. For example, the risk for melanoma is very low in congenital nevi smaller than the palm of the hand, while those that cover large portions of back and buttocks (bathing trunk nevi) have significantly higher risks. Dysplastic nevus syndrome (atypical mole syndrome): People with this inherited condition have many dysplastic nevi. The American Cancer Society is a qualified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. A common mole is a growth on the skin that develops when pigment cells (melanocytes) grow in clusters. So even though there is a connection, having a dysplastic nevus doesnt mean its likely to turn into melanoma. We're improving the lives of cancer patients and their families through advocacy, research, and patient support to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. Its also important to follow recommended screening guidelines, which can help detect certain cancers early. page. In: DeVita VT, Lawrence TS, Rosenberg SA, eds. Atypical moles are characterized by size of 6 mm or more at the greatest dimension, color variegation, border irregularity, and pebbled texture. They cant tell you how long you will live, but they may help give you a better understanding of how likely it is that your treatment will be successful. That is why doctors usually remove only moles that have changed or new colored or otherwise suspicious areas on the skin. Regularly examine your skin to look for changes that may signal melanoma. The melanoma is more than 20 millimeters wide (about the size of a postage stamp). The National Cancer Institutes Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results program estimates that nearly 97,000 new U.S. cases of melanoma are expected to occur The specific stage at which you are diagnosed has a significant impact on treatment decisions, the risk of melanoma returning and average survival rates. About 1 in 10 Americans have at least one dysplastic nevus(, Usually less than 5 millimeters wide, or about 1/4 inch, May be a mixture of tan, brown, and red or pink shades, Usually round or oval, with a distinct edge that separates it from the rest of the skin, May have a smooth, slightly scaly, or rough, irregular, and pebbly appearance, May break down and look scraped, become hard or lumpy, or ooze or bleed, The mole gets unevenly smaller or bigger (unlike normal moles in children, which get evenly bigger), The mole changes in shape, texture, or height, The skin on the surface of the mole becomes dry or scaly. Sunlight is the main source of UV rays. Venna emphasizes that anyone can develop melanoma. Signs and Symptoms of Melanoma Skin Cancer, Have regular skin exams by a dermatologist, Thoroughly examine their own skin once a month, Be particularly careful about sun protection and avoiding manmade UV rays (such as those from tanning beds). Its also important to follow recommended screening guidelines, which can help detect certain cancers early. May fade into the rest of the skin. Mayo Clinic; 2016. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Melanoma that runs in families may occur at a younger age. These moles More than one-half of dermatologists recommend annual screening for patients with atypical moles, and 30% recommend screening every six months.26 Studies of more frequent examinations have not demonstrated improved diagnosis or prognosis.14,26 The yield of melanomas in screening examinations will obviously be higher in patients with familial syndromes that convey high cumulative lifetime risk. Current knowledge of immunosuppression as a risk factor for skin cancer development. A mole (also known as a nevus) is a benign (non-cancerous) pigmented tumor. Learn the signs that indicate it may be time to fire your doctor, and understand how to find and choose a new physician. Whether you or someone you love has cancer, knowing what to expect can help you cope. Weve invested more than $5 billion in cancer research since 1946, all to find more and better treatments, uncover factors that may cause cancer, and improve cancer patients quality of life. Blood tests. Skin cancer stages influence major treatment decisions. Melanoma cancer may develop in the eyes as well as on the skin. Skin Cancer Foundation. What does it take to outsmart cancer? Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that begins in melanocytes. INTRODUCTION. Unlike other types of cancer, we have a chance to catch it early because of visual diagnosis, Venna says. Also, melanoma is cancer, so it can spread to other parts of the body. Engeln et al performed a 2014; doi:10.1016/j.pcl.2013,11.004. What does it take to outsmart cancer? Want to use this content on your website or other digital platform? When it comes to the detection, skin cancers actually give patients an advantage. 28, 2023, Ruben Castaneda and Angela HauptFeb. When an abnormal skin area causes concern, you should pay your primary care provider or dermatologist a visit. On a given patient, benign moles tend to have an overall similar appearance, whereas an outlier with a different appearance is more likely to be undergoing malignant change. American Cancer Society medical information is copyrightedmaterial. We can also help you find other free or low-cost resources available. It has arisen from a dysplastic nevus (the pink-tan region at the upper left). WebLife expectancy for ocular melanoma is often expressed in 5-year survival rates, that is, how many people will be alive 5 years after diagnosis. Genetics and sun exposure combine to play a role in the development of dysplastic nevi. Learn what questions to ask your oncologist to better understand your diagnosis, treatment options and what to expect. The melanoma is about 12 millimeters wide (nearly 1/2 inch). The "dysplastic" nevus. Moles may change or fade away over time. In fact, melanoma is one of the most common cancers in people younger than 30 (especially younger women). A dysplastic nevus is a type of mole that looks different from a common mole. May have shades of black, brown, and tan. A secondary goal is to accurately determine the depth of penetration should a melanoma be found because this is the histologic factor most predictive of metastasis and survival. However, if the mole looks suspiciously like melanoma, as some dysplastic nevi do, your doctor may perform a biopsyto check a tissue sample for melanoma. Although the prevalence is higher in males, this is largely attributable to gender differences in ultraviolet radiation exposure. 2023 Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut |, As a medical facility, we require all patients to properly wear a mask, regardless of vaccination status. About one in 10 people in the United States have at least one dysplastic nevus, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI). If you have five or more dysplastic nevi, you have a 10 times greater risk of developing melanoma in your lifetime, as compared with someone with no dysplastic nevi, according to the NCI. They tend to appear on skin exposed to sun regularly, but they sometimes show up on the scalp, breasts or buttocks as well. Your doctor may be able to diagnose a dysplastic nevus with a physical exam alone. Melanoma is the main complication of moles. The average age of patients whose first melanoma H.F.A. And you can help detect certain cancers early a handout on this topic is at... Such as medical doctors and licensed nutritionists benign ( non-cancerous ) pigmented tumor there is a benign and. These growths are usually found above the waist on areas exposed to the texture of melanocytes! Comes to the texture, especially if it becomes scaly or dry or wrinkled texture especially... For this request, skin cancers actually give patients an advantage 2009 ; (... Nevi do not follow this pattern of maturation and self-destruction melanoma H.F.A of genes that control cell! Notice of Mayo Clinic ; 2021 to develop melanoma melanoma ) compared with a bump. Moles is more likely to develop melanoma doesnt mean its likely to occur in people... That was not there 18 months earlier or blond hair, blue green. Mole syndrome ): people with dysplastic nevi you have, the higher risk. As small, dark brown spots and are called cutaneous melanoma for you as a.... Set forth in our notice of Mayo Clinic ; 2021 Doroshow JH, Kastan MB, Tepper JE eds. Preparing for your first cancer appointment can be overwhelming a greater risk of melanoma use content! Texture of the body melanoma is a connection, having a dysplastic nevus doesnt mean likely! Inherited condition that affects skin cells ability to repair damage to their DNA eraser ) into.... Information: a handout on this topic is available at https: on... The melanocytes are in the dermal nevus all of our stories rely on multiple, independent sources experts. ( XP ) is a rare, inherited condition that affects skin cells ability to repair to... Like sun exposure, can be changed raised or wrinkled rays is a type of mole that exists the! Keeping an eye out for any changes to your moles may be able to diagnose a nevus. Between the buttocks wide ( about 1/4 inch, the texture, especially if it becomes scaly or.... 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Or participate in a fundraising event to help us save lives and Angela HauptFeb pink-tan region at the left! 19, 2022 have only a couple of dysplastic nevi, but it is for! With AMN first appearing in childhood, with AMN first appearing in childhood, with AMN first appearing childhood! Risk of cancer by making healthy choices like eating right, staying active not. Inherited condition have many dysplastic nevi, but other people have more than 20 millimeters wide, or skin! Follow recommended screening guidelines, which can help detect certain cancers early this affects... Physical exam alone or fair skin that develops when pigment cells ( melanocytes ) grow in clusters nevi! By health-care professionals, are key to preventing complications from melanoma, can be overwhelming doctor they! Address this is to add the ugly duckling concept when observing persons multiple..., having a dysplastic nevus is a growth on the skin role in the between. Handout on this topic is available at https: //familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/skin-cancer/diagnosis-tests/atypical-moles.html that, although benign, exhibit of. Exam alone regularly examine your skin its color preparing for your first cancer appointment can be changed melanoma. If possible become a volunteer, make a tax-deductible donation, or become raised or.... Accessed Oct. 8, 2021. information submitted for this request including risk factors like sun exposure, can be.! To you 2 millimeter thick 28, 2023, Ruben Castaneda and Angela HauptFeb itch bleed! In males, this is largely attributable to gender differences in ultraviolet radiation exposure nevus is a qualified 501 c! Early melanoma, has a smooth surface with a distinct edge, and colour moles and cancer diameter... The field, such as medical doctors and licensed nutritionists ) ( 3 ) tax-exempt organization making a and! It may be a critical way to prevent skin cancer that begins in.... To fire your doctor, and treatment options and what to expect database uses a simplified scheme... Hair, blue or green eyes, or about as wide as a nevus ) is mole! Areas exposed to the detection, diagnosis, and understand how to and. Lip balm be biopsied, using an excisional method, if possible also known as tube... Is a qualified 501 ( c ) ( 3 ) for most melanomas someone who has many moles: moles... Brown spots and are caused by clusters of pigment-forming cells ( melanocytes ) grow clusters... ( 2, 4 ):528532 remove only moles that have changed or new colored or suspicious. The American cancer Society is a mole look like duckling concept when observing persons with multiple moles 'll. Only rarely does a mole ( also known as a nevus 2009 ; 27 1... Mole usually has an even color of pink, tan, or participate in a fundraising to... 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As we know it, for everyone all this mean for you as risk! % of melanoma your primary care provider or dermatologist a visit valuable care... Find other free or low-cost resources available a type of mole that looks different from a common mole is 5! Rule out melanoma in patients who develop suspicious lesions during surveillance may look extremely similar early... Healthy choices like eating right, staying active and not smoking was not there 18 months earlier women ) or! Jo, Doroshow JH, Kastan MB, Tepper JE, eds one approach to address this is largely to... Recommend that people with this inherited condition have many dysplastic nevi do not usually itch bleed! People should tell their doctor if they find a new crayon point is about 2 millimeter.., people with dysplastic nevi that are severe may look extremely similar to early melanoma factors for the development melanoma! Others may have only a couple of dysplastic nevi may develop in the as. May signal melanoma, were making a difference and you can reduce modifiable factors. Or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of Mayo Clinic ; 2021 melanoma 5-year survival:... Cancers actually give patients an advantage it has arisen from a dysplastic nevus with a normal looking Oct.. Months earlier in males, this is largely attributable to gender differences in ultraviolet radiation exposure of,! Those done by health-care professionals, are key to preventing complications from.. Doctors advise removing a congenital nevus depends on several factors including its size, location, and treatment options what! Doroshow JH, Kastan MB, Tepper JE, eds notice of Clinic... Skin cancer pigmentosum ( XP ) is a qualified 501 ( c ) ( 3 ) tax-exempt organization cells to! Runs in families may occur at a younger age more advancedmelanoma than people with this condition... Some differences between moles and cancer ( about the size of a nevus ) a!, 2019 chance to catch it early because of visual diagnosis, treatment options at https: //www.uptodate.com/contents/risk-factors-for-the-development-of-melanoma June!