Moles
Moles can appear anywhere on the skin and can be various sizes and shapes. Over time they can change color, shape or disappear completely. If you have a mole that is larger than a pencil eraser, has an irregular border, or an uneven color with dark brown centers and lighter, uneven edges, you may have a higher-than-average risk of developing a form of skin cancer called malignant melanoma.

Repeated sunburns may also increase this risk. Recognizing the early warning signs of malignant melanoma is important as is having a physician do an annual skin exam. If a suspicious mole is found, all or part of it may be removed and examined under a microscope. If the growth is cancerous, the entire lesion will also need to be removed. If you have any moles that fit this description or have changed in size, color or shape, give our office a call.