long lasting mole changes

Overview

A mole that changes over a long period of time can be a sign that something is happening in your skin. This article explains what a long-lasting mole change is, why it happens, and when you need to see a doctor.

Yes, many people have moles. Most mole changes are not harmful, but new or changing moles can sometimes be a warning sign of skin cancer, so it is always sensible to get them checked.

Anyone can have a mole change, but people with fair skin, a history of sunburn, or a family history of skin cancer have a higher chance of developing a mole that becomes a problem.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A mole that has changed in the last few weeks or months
• A mole that has grown bigger or become raised
• A mole with irregular edges or multiple colours
• A mole that bleeds, itches, or crusts
• A mole that feels different from other moles

Symptoms in children

• Moles usually appear in childhood and may change slowly as a child grows.
• New moles are common in children, but it is still important to get a mole checked if it grows quickly or looks unusual.

Symptoms in older adults

• In older adults, new moles are less common, so any new or changing mole is more concerning.
• Older skin has had more sun exposure, which may increase the risk of abnormal mole changes.

Causes

Main causes

• Sun exposure from ultraviolet (UV) light damages the skin over time, which can cause moles to change.
• Hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or puberty, can make moles darker or larger.
• Some people have a genetic tendency to develop abnormal moles.

Risk factors

• Fair skin or a history of sunburn
• Living in a sunny climate or using tanning beds
• Having many moles (more than 50)
• Having a first-degree relative (parent, brother, sister, or child) with melanoma
• A weakened immune system

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If a mole is changing quickly, bleeding, or is very different from your other moles, see a doctor without delay.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have a mole that stays the same over time and is not causing any symptoms, you can mention it to your doctor during a regular check-up.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your medical history and examine your skin. They may use a special magnifying tool called a dermatoscope to look at the mole closely.

Tests that may be done

• A full skin check to look at all your moles
• Dermoscopy to examine the mole in detail
• A biopsy, where a small sample of the mole is removed and sent to a lab to be checked under a microscope

What to expect at your appointment

The examination is usually quick and painless. If a biopsy is needed, your doctor will numb the area first. You will usually get the results within a week or two. If the mole is abnormal, your doctor will explain the next steps.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and the results of any tests. If a mole is harmless, no treatment is needed. If it is abnormal or pre-cancerous, it can be removed surgically. If it is skin cancer, your specialist team will recommend the best treatment for you.

Self-care at home

• Monitor your moles at home using the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry, Border, Colour, Diameter, Evolving
• Take photos of your moles to track changes over time
• Protect your skin from the sun with clothing, shade, and sunscreen - but always discuss sunscreen choices with your pharmacist or doctor

Medical treatments

Medical treatment is guided by your healthcare team. Options may include surgical removal of the mole, or in some cases, additional treatments such as immunotherapy, radiotherapy, or targeted drug therapy - your doctors will explain what is right for you. Always follow the advice of your qualified healthcare provider.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is the most common treatment for a mole that needs to be removed. It is usually done under local anaesthetic (the area is numbed). In some cases, a scar will remain, but the mole is sent to a lab to check for cancer.

Living with this condition

If you have a mole that is being monitored, get to know your skin. Check it every few months and contact your doctor if anything changes.

Lifestyle tips

• Wear sun protection every day, even when it's cloudy
• Avoid sunbeds and long periods in the sun
• Keep a simple record of your moles with photos and notes

Diet and exercise

There is no special diet for moles, but eating a balanced diet and staying active help keep your immune system strong, which supports your overall health.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Worrying about a mole can cause stress and anxiety. Talk to your doctor about your concerns, and consider telling a friend or family member. If your anxiety starts to affect your daily life, ask your doctor for advice.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent an abnormal mole from developing, but you can lower your risk by protecting your skin from the sun and checking your skin regularly.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for abnormal moles or skin cancer.

Screening programmes

Regular total-body skin checks by a doctor are recommended for people at high risk. Ask your doctor how often you should have your skin checked.

Complications

If left untreated

• An untreated abnormal mole can, in some cases, turn into a type of skin cancer called melanoma
• Melanoma can spread to other parts of the body if it is not treated early
• A mole that changes may sometimes be a sign of another skin disorder that may worsen if left without medical advice

Long-term outlook

The outlook for mole changes is generally very good if you see a doctor early. Most moles are harmless, and even when a mole is found to be cancerous, early treatment has a very high cure rate. Regular skin checks and prompt attention to changes give you the best chance of a good outcome.

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