Atypical
moles are generally larger than normal
moles, variable in color, often have irregular
borders and may occur in far greater number than
regular moles. Atypical moles occur most often
on the back and also occur commonly on the chest,
abdomen and legs in women, but they may occur
anywhere on the skin surface. Multiple atypical
moles on the skin represent an increased risk
for melanoma in that individual. When examining
moles, consider the following “ABCD”
features:
| • |
Asymmetry
– One half of the mole does not match
the other half. |
| • |
Border
irregularity –ragged, notched or blurred
borders instead of smooth round borders. |
| • |
Color
– The pigmentation/color of the mole
is not uniform. |
| • |
Diameter
– moles larger than a pencil eraser
(6mm) are more likely to be atypical. |
Moles that meet some or all of these criteria
should be checked by a dermatologist. |
