Known as nevi, moles and other birthmarks are benign pigmented spots or patches of skin that range in color from tan, brown, and black (moles) to red, pink or purple (vascular nevi, such as strawberry hemangiomas or port wine stains). Though most birthmarks are harmless, occasionally some may develop into cancer. Moles exhibiting any of the following warning signs should be examined by a professional immediately:
Be aware that a mole does not have to be symptomatic to be dangerous. Therefore, at Chatham Skin & Cancer Center, we recommend that everyone have a yearly skin examination. Moles can be "atypical" or precancerous and often need to be biopsied for close monitoring. This leads to prevention and/or early diagnosis of melanoma. Melanoma can be fatal, but when diagnosed early, is completely curable.