Persistent Scab on Mole: Seeking Advice
I’m a 34-year-old male, weighing 170 pounds, with a fair complexion, and there's a notable family history of numerous moles; both my mother and grandmother had over a hundred each, all benign. After visiting a dermatologist in August 2024, where all my moles were checked and cleared, I adopted a routine of walking for 1.5 to 2 hours daily during the winter. During one of these walks in November 2024, I observed a previously smooth, flat mole located on my calf had developed a scab. Upon closer examination, I noticed that part of it had come off. At the time, I attributed this change to either skin trauma or reaction to the cold, as I had seen some larger moles develop harder spots due to daily friction. Recently, however, I recalled this incident and was dismayed to find that the scab remains unchanged, firm to the touch, and visually similar to how it appeared in late November; there’s no pain, bleeding, or inflammation. My main concern is that the scab appears ulcerated when looked at closely, and I lack access to a qualified oncological dermatologist in my area. Seeking one may require significant travel, possibly to another city or even out of the country, if it turns out to be serious. I would greatly appreciate any advice on whether I should consult a local dermatologist or pursue a full assessment with an oncological specialist, including potential biopsies and further examination.
Answers (1)
3/28/2025, 1:30:37 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about a persistent change in a mole, especially given your family history and previous dermatological evaluations. A firm, scabbed area on a mole that does not heal may require further assessment to rule out any serious conditions.
Explanation
Moles can change over time due to various factors, including trauma, environmental influences, or benign skin changes. However, new or persistent changes, especially in terms of texture, color, or forming ulcers, are essential to monitor closely. While the absence of pain, bleeding, or inflammation is reassuring, stability of a scab for an extended period may warrant further investigation.
Next Steps
-
Self-Examination: Regularly check your mole for any new changes in size, color, or borders in the next few weeks. Document any observations with photos or notes.
-
Local Dermatologist: Since you mentioned that traveling to a specialist may be difficult, it’s advisable to consult a local dermatologist if possible. Even if they are not oncologists, they can perform an examination and potentially a biopsy, which is key in determining whether the mole is benign or needing further analysis.
-
Monitor Symptoms: Pay attention to any changes like pain, bleeding, or increased ulceration. If these occur, seek medical advice promptly.
-
Consider Telehealth: If access is an issue, consider a telehealth appointment with a dermatologist who can guide you based on your observations. This can often be just as effective for initial assessments.
-
Maintain Routine: Continue your walking routine for overall health, but try to limit friction on the area, avoiding tight clothing or repetitive trauma to the mole.
While it's natural to feel anxious about this situation, focusing on these proactive steps can help you manage your concerns effectively. Let me know if you need further information or guidance!
Related Questions
My Relationship with Milk Consumption
For nearly two decades, I have predominantly relied on milk as my primary source of hydration, consuming around five liters daily. Although I recognize that this reliance might not be the healthiest choice, my low appetite has perpetually left me underweight. In the past, I attempted to transition to drinking water; however, I noticed a concerning drop in weight along with persistent fatigue. My inquiry is whether there exists a more nutritious method to obtain calories without resorting to solid foods, and ideally, without incurring high costs?
When Can I Expect to Drive Again?
I’m a 35-year-old who suffered a spiral fracture in my right leg affecting both the fibula and tibia. Five weeks post-surgery, I've begun my rehabilitation journey, having undergone physical therapy for three weeks now. I’ve noticed that my leg is beginning to regain sensation, with improved control over my ankle and feeling returning to the sole of my foot. Given this progress, what is a realistic timeframe for when I might be able to drive safely once more?
Seeking Help for Ongoing Health Issues
I am reaching out in desperation for assistance! I'm wondering if anyone else has encountered similar health concerns or could recommend medications or specialists I should consider consulting. I'm truly at a loss and need guidance. As a 23-year-old male vegetarian weighing around 48 kg and standing at 5’4”, I have struggled with being underweight since my childhood. This condition has left me feeling utterly drained and overwhelmed. I’m eager to make a change but feel lost regarding where to begin or which healthcare professional to consult. In my youth, I was diagnosed with asthma, which has significantly improved; however, I continue to deal with low immunity, as I frequently catch colds and coughs from minor exposure to cold environments. Additionally, I’ve noticed that for the past few years, my body temperature feels abnormally high compared to those around me. I experience heat more acutely than my peers. Previously, I was quite active and could walk 4–5 kilometers daily without difficulty. Nowadays, even a short walk of 1–2 kilometers or climbing a few flights of stairs leaves me out of breath and exhausted. Even on days of little physical exertion, I feel weak and lethargic, as though all my vitality has been drained. My appetite has always been low, despite my efforts to increase it. I struggle to consume what would be considered an average meal for someone my age. Just two chapatis or a small bowl of rice or lentils fills me up completely, and attempting to eat more causes discomfort. I often find it perplexing how others manage to eat such larger portions. Dining out has become a challenge for me since even half a plate feels overwhelmingly full. Being extremely slender has made it difficult to find clothing that fits well and has adversely impacted my confidence over the years. For around 15 years, I have hesitated to take photographs of myself. Social and professional circles often regard me as younger than I am, sometimes even as a child, which has contributed to my feelings of invisibility and insecurity. My sensitivity to heat has intensified over the last few years. In seemingly normal room temperatures, I start sweating profusely while those around me remain comfortable. During cold weather, even in temperatures as low as 8°C, I don’t wear warm clothing, as I sweat excessively and feel anxious about overheating. The discomfort can escalate to a point where I feel faint from the heat. In my workplace, where the air conditioning is set at a standard temperature, I find it challenging. I begin to sweat visibly, leaving my clothes damp and prompting coworkers to inquire about my wellbeing. I often feel breathless and anxious that I might collapse if I remain there too long. This makes it very difficult to stay at the office or use public transportation, as even air-conditioned buses can feel uncomfortably warm to me. Over the past year, my situation has deteriorated further. I can no longer tolerate hot or even mildly spiced home-cooked meals, which I used to enjoy without issues. Now, even mildly spiced foods lead to excessive sweating, reddening of my face, and an intense burning sensation in my mouth, akin to consuming overly spicy dishes. As a result, my food intake has diminished even more. I often face ridicule for my dietary limitations, and I’m growing weary of trying to explain my condition, especially when my own family doesn't fully grasp the depth of my struggles, which adds to my distress. I am sharing my story because I truly need help. I wish to identify the underlying issues with my health and seek proper medical attention. If anyone has experienced similar problems or can recommend a suitable type of medical professional to consult, I would greatly appreciate your guidance and support during this challenging time. Thank you. 😭
Interpretation Request for Recent Spinal NM Bone Scan
Hello, doctors. I'm reaching out for your insights regarding a recent NM bone scan of my spine. I've previously undergone a similar scan in 2022, and I'd like to compare the two. To provide context, I am a 29-year-old female weighing 100 kg, and I've been diagnosed with conditions including endplate sclerosis, spinal stenosis, cervical bone spurs, degenerative disc disease (DDD), and mild scoliosis. My medication regimen consists of several prescriptions. Unfortunately, my next appointment with my general practitioner is still a few weeks away, so I would appreciate your assessments on how the latest scan compares to the previous one. Thank you in advance for your help!
Unexpected Eye Issues: Headache and Double Vision Concerns
A 33-year-old female, measuring 1.67 meters in height and weighing 55 kilograms, residing in the Netherlands, experienced a sudden onset of symptoms. Last evening, shortly after dinner, my partner complained of a slight headache localized at the rear of her head. Along with this discomfort, she encountered double vision and noticed her right eye deviating outward. Interestingly, when she shut either eye, the double vision resolved, enabling her to see without distortion. We rushed her to the emergency room later that night. The medical team conducted a variety of assessments, including physical examinations, neurological evaluations, visual tests, and laboratory analyses. Fortunately, all results were normal. However, the doctors found it peculiar that her right eye exhibited normal movement and accurately tracked a pen in all directions when her left eye was closed. The medical opinion suggested that it may be a migraine-related episode, a condition she has experienced previously. Nonetheless, she insists that this feels unlike any migraine she has had in the past. A teleconsultation with a neurologist is scheduled for Monday to arrange an MRI should the symptoms continue. The doctors advised that if her symptoms worsen, we should return to the hospital immediately. Fortunately, after a night's rest, her vision had returned to normal by morning, the headache had subsided, and her right eye was aligned properly. I am understandably concerned, particularly due to her assertion that this does not resemble a typical migraine. Is it possible that this is indeed a migraine, or could it be indicative of another underlying issue? Thank you for your attention to this matter.