Longstanding Mole Now Appearing Like a Whitehead
Gender: AFAB, Age: 28, Height: 5'5", Weight: 100 lbs As the title suggests, I've had this mole for quite some time. I can’t recall its presence from my very early childhood, but I have definitely noticed it since my teenage years. This particular mole, which is the only one that stands out on my body, is located on the side of my face and has a deep brown color. A doctor I consulted last year assessed it and mentioned that it appears benign due to its round shape, which does not show any asymmetry. However, I observed something unusual yesterday. There was a small white spot at its center, and after gently squeezing it, a solid white substance emerged. It doesn’t resemble pus since it has a different texture. I’ve tried to find information about this development online, but I haven't come across anything relevant. Thank you in advance for any insights you can provide!
Answers (1)
6/17/2025, 10:30:46 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about changes in a mole you've had for a long time. The appearance of a whitehead-like feature can be perplexing, especially when it comes to something you’ve monitored for years. You’ve mentioned that this mole was assessed previously and deemed benign; however, any change in its appearance warrants a careful approach.
Explanation:
A mole, or nevus, can change in various ways over time, and the presence of a small white spot, especially if it can expel a solid substance, is unusual for typical moles. This may potentially indicate the formation of a keratin plug, an epidermal inclusion cyst, or another benign skin condition rather than a malignant transformation. However, since it is changing, it is wise to keep an eye on it.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor the Mole: Keep an eye on the mole over the next few weeks. Note any changes in color, size, shape, or texture. Take clear close-up photos to track how the mole changes over time.
-
Avoid Squeezing: Refrain from squeezing or manipulating the mole further to avoid irritation or infection.
-
Hydration and Care: Ensure to keep the area clean and moisturized. Use a gentle cleanser and consider a non-comedogenic moisturizer to prevent irritation.
-
Consult a Dermatologist: Given the change in the mole's appearance, your best course of action is to arrange a follow-up with a dermatologist. They can provide an accurate diagnosis, possibly through dermoscopy or biopsy if needed.
-
Document Symptoms: If you experience any new or unusual symptoms, such as itching, bleeding, or pain, document these and mention them during your dermatology appointment.
It’s great that you are proactive about your health. Taking these steps will not only help in monitoring the mole but also assist in making informed decisions about your skin health. Please feel free to share any further concerns or questions!
Related Questions
Combining Ketorolac with Alcohol: Is It Safe?
Recently, I unknowingly mixed a 10mg dose of ketorolac with half a bottle of 4.5% beer. At that moment, I wasn't aware of the potential risks involved in this combination. It wasn't until I was partway through my drink that I thought to look it up. Now, I’m wondering if it’ll be fine for me to have a drink tomorrow night after stopping all ketorolac use, especially since this medication hasn’t been effective for my pain relief. To give you an idea of the timeline, I took ketorolac around 2 PM and didn’t start drinking until 11 PM.
Concerns About My Eye Condition
I'm a 19-year-old female, weighing 190 pounds and standing 5'5". Lately, I’ve noticed some troubling changes in my eyes. There are prominent, red veins extending from the inner corners of my eyes into the irises. Additionally, there are bright red streaks and pools forming at the lower part of both eyes beneath the eyelids, bordered by a yellowish hue. When I consulted two different doctors, they were unable to pinpoint the issue and simply recommended lubricating eye drops. Unfortunately, the condition seems to be deteriorating, with the redness spreading further. While there is no significant pain, keeping my eyes open feels like a struggle, and my vision has become increasingly blurry, leading to some headaches. I’ve been unwell recently, but I’m uncertain if this has any relevance to my eye problems. Any advice or insights would be immensely helpful.
Experiencing Numbness in the Right Arm or Leg?
Hello! I’m a 17-year-old assigned female at birth, weighing approximately 110 pounds and standing around 5 feet 2-3 inches tall. At the moment, I’m not taking any medications and I don’t smoke. Recently, I’ve been facing a peculiar issue where my right leg or arm occasionally becomes numb. This sensation only impacts my right side and never the left. It can occur at any time, both during day and night. Typically, the numbness in my leg arises when I’m lying in bed, although I also experience it randomly throughout the day. I’m curious if anyone has any insights or thoughts about whether this could be something more serious than just a problem with my posture, haha!
Concerns About Telemedicine during a Drive
Hello everyone, I'm a 28-year-old woman with a background of thyroid cancer, necessitating routine check-ups every six months. Recently, a question came to my mind regarding the professional conduct of my primary care physician. I was taken aback to learn that she participated in my telemedicine appointment while driving. I've noticed her appearing somewhat distracted during our in-person visits and at times, she forgets the medications we discuss during our reviews, but this situation felt even more inappropriate. It’s challenging for me to comprehend why I’m spending $450 post-insurance for what feels like a casual video call when it’s clear she is multitasking. Although I've been under her care for about two years, I'm eager to find a practitioner who will genuinely take the time to understand my health history and build a long-term relationship. I appreciate any insights you can offer!
Concerns About a Recent Lump on My Shaft: Seeking Guidance
I’m a 20-year-old male with allergies primarily to wood, pollen, and grass, which used to cause me hives, but that issue has resolved. Now, to address the main concern. I found a lump on my shaft while showering yesterday morning, and it caught me off guard. Up until now, I haven’t experienced any discomfort, and I still feel largely fine. The size of the lump is similar to that of a pimple or possibly a cyst, but I'm unsure. I'm contemplating whether it would be wise to consult a doctor about this issue, as I want to be informed on how to proceed. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!