mole changes in older adults

Overview

A mole is a small, coloured spot on the skin. As we age, moles can change in size, shape, or colour. Some changes are normal, but others can be a sign of skin cancer. This article explains what to look for and when to see a doctor.

It is common for moles to change slightly with age, and it is also common for new spots to appear. However, melanoma is more common in older adults, so any significant change should not be ignored.

Older adults, especially those over 50, people with fair skin, a history of sunburns, or a family history of melanoma.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A mole that changes in size, shape, or colour
• A new mole appearing after age 30
• A mole that becomes itchy, tender, or bleeds
• A mole that looks different from other moles on your body

Symptoms in children

• Moles in children are usually harmless and often change with growth. They only rarely need to be checked, but it’s okay to ask a doctor if you’re concerned.

Symptoms in older adults

• An existing mole becoming larger or darker
• A new pigmented spot appearing on the skin
• A mole with irregular edges or multiple colours
• A sore on a mole that does not heal

Causes

Main causes

• Moles are made of pigment-producing cells. With age, these cells can change in behaviour. Some changes are simply due to normal ageing, while others result from skin damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) light, which can lead to skin cancer.

Risk factors

• Fair skin, blue or green eyes, or light hair
• A history of sunburns, especially blistering burns in childhood or youth
• Having more than 50 moles
• A family or personal history of skin cancer
• Lifelong sun exposure

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You notice any mole that is changing, new, or looks different from your other moles, especially if it shows ABCDE signs: Asymmetry, irregular Border, multiple Colours, Diameter larger than 6mm, or Evolving.
• A mole becomes itchy, painful, bleeding, or crusted.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have many moles or a family history of skin cancer, ask your doctor about a full skin check once a year, or more often if recommended.

Diagnosis

A doctor will look at your skin using a dermatoscope, a special magnifying glass with a light. They will examine the mole’s size, shape, colour, and pattern.

Tests that may be done

• Visual examination with a dermatoscope
• A biopsy – removing a small sample of the mole to be tested in a laboratory

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will ask about your medical history and examine the mole. If it looks unusual, they may numb the area and remove part or all of the mole. The sample is sent to a lab, and you usually get results within a couple of weeks.

Treatment

If a mole is benign, no treatment is needed. If it is skin cancer, treatment depends on the type and stage. Most skin cancers are treated surgically.

Self-care at home

• Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on all exposed skin, even on cloudy days.
• Avoid sunbeds and stay out of the sun during peak hours (10am to 4pm).
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing when in the sun.
• Check your skin regularly and take photos of any spots that concern you.

Medical treatments

For skin cancers, the main treatment is surgery to remove the cancer along with a small margin of healthy tissue. Other options may include freezing, topical creams, or radiation therapy, depending on the exact type and stage. Your doctor will discuss the best approach with you.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is the most common treatment for melanoma and other skin cancers. It is usually done as a day procedure, meaning you can go home the same day.

Living with this condition

After a mole has been checked, continue to monitor your skin. Use a handheld mirror to check your back, or ask a partner or friend to help. Take photos of any spots you are unsure about so you can track changes.

Lifestyle tips

• Protect your skin from the sun every day, not just on holiday.
• Avoid sunburn at all costs.
• Do not use sunbeds.
• Be aware of any new or changing spots and get them checked promptly.

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables supports overall skin health, but there is no specific diet that prevents melanoma. Regular exercise is good for your general well-being, though it is not directly linked to skin cancer prevention.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Worrying about moles and skin cancer can cause anxiety. Getting any change checked is the best way to reduce that worry. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to your doctor about your feelings and ask for support.

Prevention

Not all mole changes can be prevented, but you can lower your risk of skin cancer by protecting your skin from UV light and avoiding sunbeds.

Screening programmes

There is no national screening programme for skin cancer, but you can ask your doctor for a skin check anytime you are worried.

Complications

If left untreated

• If a mole that is cancer is left untreated, the cancer can grow deeper into the skin and spread to other parts of the body.
• Late-detected melanoma is harder to treat and can be more dangerous.

Long-term outlook

The outlook for skin cancer is very good when it is caught early. Even melanoma has a high cure rate when treated in its early stages. Checking your skin and seeing a doctor promptly can save your life.

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