Pay Close Attention: This Type of Skin Growth Might Signal a Serious Issue

Moles are small clusters of pigment-producing cells that are generally harmless if they remain symmetrical and unchanged. However, if a mole starts to alter in size, shape, or color—or if it begins to itch, bleed, or develop a crust—it could be a warning sign of melanoma or other forms of skin cancer. Early recognition is essential for effective treatment and better outcomes.

The ABCDE Guide for Spotting Problematic Moles

To help distinguish between ordinary moles and potentially dangerous ones, dermatologists recommend following the ABCDE checklist:

Asymmetry: One side looks different from the other.
Border: Edges appear uneven, blurred, or jagged.
Color: Variations in color can occur within the mole, including shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue.
Diameter: Larger than 6 millimeters (roughly the size of a pencil eraser).
Evolving: Any change in the mole’s size, shape, color, or symptoms over time.

If you notice any mole meeting these criteria, seek medical advice promptly.

Other Skin Growths Worth Monitoring

While abnormal moles often raise concern, several other skin changes also deserve attention:

Actinic Keratoses: Rough, scaly patches linked to sun damage, sometimes developing into squamous cell carcinoma.
Basal Cell Carcinomas: Pearly or waxy bumps, frequently appearing in sun-exposed regions.
Squamous Cell Carcinomas: Firm, red nodules or flat patches with a crusty surface.
Seborrheic Keratoses: Non-cancerous brown or black growths that can resemble stuck-on debris but are sometimes confused with malignant lesions.