Concerns About a Potentially Unusual Mole
Male, 53 years old, underwent a comprehensive skin examination for the first time on November 24. During this check-up, five moles were extracted for biopsy, all of which were confirmed as non-cancerous. However, in mid-January, I noticed one mole beginning to itch and exhibit redness, prompting a return visit to my dermatologist in early February. During this visit, the Physician Assistant performed biopsies on this mole and two additional small, dark moles located on my back and shoulder that had enlarged since my November appointment. The results indicated that two of these moles had moderate dysplastic characteristics, including the itchy one, while one was classified as mildly dysplastic. Additionally, there is another mole positioned directly beneath the one that was biopsied, which has not exhibited any changes but appears concerning due to its irregular shape and varying shades of brown. My inquiry for a dermatologist or dermatology PA relates to this particular mole: considering it is situated right beneath the one that was biopsied, can I infer that it was evaluated either during the February biopsy or during the initial November skin check when the other five moles were analyzed? If its appearance has remained stable, could I reasonably assume that it was examined with a dermatoscope during one of these previous visits and determined to be of no concern? Appreciate your insights!
Answers (1)
3/29/2025, 5:30:49 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to have concerns about moles, especially after recent biopsies and your observations regarding changes. Here are the key points regarding your situation and the mole beneath the one that was biopsied:
-
Mole Evaluation History: While I can't definitively confirm if the mole beneath the one biopsied was directly evaluated during your previous visits, it's likely that it was at least viewed during your comprehensive skin examination in November and during your February visit. Dermatologists typically look at all moles in the vicinity during evaluations and may also use a dermatoscope to assess their characteristics.
-
Stability is Encouraging: Since you mention that this particular mole has not changed and is considered stable, this is generally a positive sign. Moles that show no change over time, especially in size, color, and shape, are often less concerning.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor for Changes: Keep an eye on the mole beneath the biopsied one. Document any changes, including increases in size, color alterations, or new symptoms like itching or bleeding. If any of these changes occur, inform your dermatologist promptly.
-
Schedule Regular Check-ups: Make sure to continue with regular skin checks with your dermatologist, ideally at least once a year, or sooner if you notice any concerning changes.
-
Seek Clarification: During your next appointment, consider directly asking your dermatologist about the mole in question. They can provide you with specific insights based on their examination findings from the past.
-
Self-Examination: Regularly check your skin. Staying familiar with the moles you have can help you notice any changes sooner.
It's completely normal to feel anxious about these skin changes, but staying vigilant while maintaining communication with your dermatologist is the best approach. If you have any further questions or need more reassurance, don’t hesitate to reach out!
Related Questions
Enigmatic Skin Condition
I’ve recently stumbled upon this community and wanted to share my experience! Here's my story: - At the age of 22, I noticed peculiar marks appearing on both of my hands. They weren’t itchy or red, but there was some slight swelling in my hands. - I felt perfectly healthy otherwise, without any additional symptoms. - These marks extended from my fingertips to about the halfway point on my forearms. - Over a span of two weeks, they began as subtle symptoms beneath the skin and eventually surfaced, with some areas developing blisters. - Prior to this, I had experienced chicken pox as a child at three years old and shingles on my back at the age of 19. Since then, I have had no other skin-related problems, and I’ve never dealt with cold sores, warts, or anything similar. - I consulted a general practitioner at the time, who speculated that it might be stress-related as he eliminated the possibility of contact dermatitis. This was shortly after I graduated from college about a month earlier. This incident occurred back in 2008, and I haven't encountered anything like it again. I would appreciate any insights or thoughts you may have!
Concern Over New Skin Growth on Thigh
I’ve noticed a skin lesion about 20mm in size on my thigh, and I’m uncertain about its nature. It’s been worrying me, and I would appreciate any insights or information regarding possible causes or conditions it might be related to. Has anyone else experienced something similar? Any advice on how to proceed would be greatly valued.
Identifying Mysterious Nose Spots
Greetings everyone! I'm a 32-year-old woman, and I don't take any medications. For several months now, I've been dealing with two spots on my nose that simply won’t go away. I maintain a skincare routine that includes cleansing, toning, and moisturizing, but despite my efforts, these spots remain persistent. They lack a noticeable head, which makes it impossible for me to pop them, and they neither cause discomfort nor have they grown larger over time. I woke up one day to discover them, and they’ve been there ever since. My apologies for the poor image quality.
Seeking Help for a Skin Rash
Age: 20 years Gender: Male Height: 5 feet 10 inches Weight: 130 pounds Ethnicity: Asian Length of Symptoms: Approximately one week, although the larger area of irritation has been developing for about three weeks. Affected Area: My arms Medical History: No known health issues Current Treatments: Not taking any medications at the moment.
Evaluating a Suspicious Spot on the Skin
At 33 years old, I've recently observed a pale spot developing on my forehead. This soft, raised area has been increasing in size rapidly and was not present back in October. I've noticed it subtly emerging in some earlier photos as well, highlighting the change over time. The spot does not exhibit any symptoms like itching, scabbing, or flaking. During summer months, I do spend considerable time outdoors, but I consistently apply sunscreen for protection. My esthetics specialist, whom I consult every other month for facials, mentioned that this spot does not appear to be related to acne and does not seem to contain any fluid or resemble milia. Given my upcoming medical appointments, I’m attempting to determine which ones should be addressed first. I discontinued spironolactone two months ago for managing elevated androgen levels and borderline polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), after being on it for approximately two years. Additionally, I stopped taking Wegovy one month ago as my husband and I are intending to try for a child following the appropriate waiting period. Currently, I am not taking any vitamins, medications, or supplements.