Content deleted Content added
m →Classification: Better photo |
|||
| (868 intermediate revisions by more than 100 users not shown) | |||
Line 1:
{{Short description|Benign skin tumor of pigment-producing cells}}
{{use dmy dates|date=February 2025}}{{Infobox medical condition (new)
| name = Melanocytic nevus
|
| image
| caption
|
| field = [[Dermatology]]
| symptoms =
| complications =
| onset =
| duration =
| types =
| causes =
| risks =
| diagnosis =
| differential =
| prevention =
| treatment =
| medication =
| prognosis =
| frequency =
| deaths =
}}
A '''melanocytic nevus''' (also known as '''nevocytic nevus''', '''nevus-cell nevus''', and commonly as a '''mole''')<ref name="Andrews">{{cite book|author1=James, William D. |author2=Berger, Timothy G. |title=Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: clinical Dermatology|publisher=Saunders Elsevier|year=2006|isbn=0-7216-2921-0|display-authors=etal}}</ref><ref name="Dorlands">{{cite book|last1=Albert|first1=Daniel|title=Dorland's illustrated medical dictionary.|date=2012|publisher=Saunders/Elsevier|___location=Philadelphia, PA|isbn=978-1-4160-6257-8|page=1173|edition=32nd}}</ref> is a usually [[Malignancy|noncancerous]] condition of pigment-producing [[Human skin|skin]] cells. It is a type of [[melanocytic tumor]] that contains [[nevus cell]]s.<ref name="Dorlands"/> A mole can be either subdermal (under the skin) or a pigmented growth on the skin, formed mostly of a type of cell known as a [[melanocyte]]. The high concentration of the body's pigmenting agent, [[melanin]], is responsible for their dark color. Moles are a member of the family of [[skin lesions]] known as [[nevi]] (singular "nevus"), occurring commonly in humans.<ref name=mayo/><ref name=aad.org/> Some sources equate the term "mole" with "melanocytic nevus",<ref name="Dorlands"/> but there are also sources that equate the term "mole" with any nevus form.<ref name="mayo">{{cite web|url=https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/moles/symptoms-causes/syc-20375200|title=Moles|date=18 February 2022|publisher=[[Mayo Clinic]]|access-date=5 June 2023}}</ref>
The majority of moles appear during the first 2 decades of a person's life, with about 1 in every 100 babies being born with moles.<ref name="aad.org">{{cite web|url=https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/moles-overview|title=What are moles?|access-date=5 June 2023|publisher=[[American Academy of Dermatology]]|date=2023}}</ref> Acquired moles are a form of [[Benign tumor|benign neoplasm]], while [[congenital]] moles, or congenital nevi, are considered a minor [[malformation]] or [[hamartoma]] and may be at a higher risk for [[melanoma]].<ref name="aad.org" />
==Signs and symptoms==
[[File:Nevus melanocítico intradérmico (RPS 09-12-2019) imagen dermatoscópica.jpg|thumb| Intradermal melanocytic nevus (dermatoscopic image)]]
According to the [[American Academy of Dermatology]], the most common types of moles are [[skin tags]], raised moles, and flat moles. [[Benignity|Benign]] moles are usually brown, tan, pink, or black (the latter especially on dark-colored skin). They are circular or oval and are usually small (commonly between 1–3 mm), though some can be larger than the size of a typical pencil eraser (>5 mm). Some moles produce dark, coarse hair. Common mole hair removal procedures include plucking, cosmetic waxing, [[electrology|electrolysis]], [[Threading (epilation)|threading]], and cauterization.
===Aging===
Moles tend to appear during early childhood and during the first 30 years of life. They may change slowly, becoming raised, changing color, or gradually fading.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/guide/moles-freckles-skin-tags|title=Moles, Freckles, Skin Tags: Types, Causes, Treatments|work=WebMD}}</ref> Most people have between 30 and 40 moles, but some have as many as 600.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-11813378|title=Skin moles link to delayed ageing|work=BBC News|date=22 November 2010}}</ref>
The number of moles a person has was found to have a correlation with [[telomere]] length.<ref>{{cite journal |vauthors=Bataille V, Kato BS, Falchi M, etal |title=Nevus size and number are associated with telomere length and represent potential markers of a decreased senescence in vivo |journal=Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention |volume=16 |issue=7 |pages=1499–1502 |date=July 2007 |pmid=17627017 |doi=10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-07-0152|doi-access=free }}</ref> However, the relation between telomeres and [[Senescence|aging]] remains uncertain.<ref>{{cite journal |vauthors=Gomes NM, Ryder OA, Houck ML, etal |title=Comparative biology of mammalian telomeres: hypotheses on ancestral states and the roles of telomeres in longevity determination |journal=Aging Cell |volume=10 |issue=5 |pages=761–768 |date=October 2011 |pmid=21518243 |pmc=3387546 |doi=10.1111/j.1474-9726.2011.00718.x}}</ref>
===Complications===
The [[American Academy of Dermatology]] says that the vast majority of moles are benign.<ref name="aad.org" /> Data on the chances of transformation from melanocytic nevus to [[melanoma]] are controversial, but it appears that about 10% of malignant melanomas have a precursor lesion, of which about 10% are melanocytic nevi. Therefore, it appears that malignant melanoma quite seldom (1% of cases) has a melanocytic nevus as a precursor.<ref>{{cite journal |author=Fernandes NC |title=The risk of cutaneous melanoma in melanocytic nevi |journal=Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia |volume=88 |issue=2 |pages=314–315 |year=2013 |pmid=23739702 |pmc=3750908 |doi=10.1590/S0365-05962013000200030}}</ref>
==Cause==
The cause of this condition is not clearly understood, but it is thought to result from a defect in [[embryologic development]] during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. The defect is thought to cause a proliferation of [[Melanocyte|melanocytes]], the cells responsible for normal skin color. When melanocytes are produced at an extremely rapid rate, they form in clusters instead of spreading out evenly, resulting in abnormal skin pigmentation in some areas of the body.{{Cn|date=June 2024}}
===Genetics===
[[Genes]] can influence a person's moles. [[Dysplastic nevus syndrome]] is a largely [[hereditary]] condition that causes a person to have a large quantity of moles (often 100 or more), with some larger than normal or atypical. This often leads to a higher risk of [[melanoma]], a serious type of [[skin cancer]].<ref>{{cite journal|author=Burkhart CG|title=Dysplastic nevus declassified: even the NIH recommends elimination of confusing terminology|journal=Skinmed|volume=2|issue=1|pages=12–13|year=2003|pmid=14673319|doi=10.1111/j.1540-9740.2003.01724.x}}</ref> Dysplastic nevi are more likely than ordinary moles to become cancerous. While dysplastic nevi are common, and many people have a few of these abnormal moles, having more than 50 ordinary moles also increases the risk of developing melanoma.<ref name="ncimelanoma">{{cite web|url=https://www.cancer.gov/|title=What You Need To Know About Melanoma - Melanoma: Who's at Risk?|date=January 1980|access-date=2008-05-18|publisher=[[National Cancer Institute]]}}</ref>
In the general population, a slight majority of melanomas do not form in existing moles but rather create new [[tumour|growths]] on the skin. Somewhat surprisingly, this pattern also applies to those with dysplastic nevi. These individuals are at a higher risk of melanoma occurring not only where there is an existing mole but also in areas without moles.<ref>{{cite journal|vauthors=Pope DJ, Sorahan T, Marsden JR, Ball PM, Grimley RP, Peck IM |title=Benign pigmented nevi in children. Prevalence and associated factors: the West Midlands, United Kingdom Mole Study|journal=Arch Dermatol|volume=128|issue=9|pages=1201–1206|year= 1992|pmid=1519934|doi=10.1001/archderm.128.9.1201}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|vauthors=Goldgar DE, Cannon-Albright LA, Meyer LJ, Piepkorn MW, Zone JJ, Skolnick MH |title=Inheritance of nevus number and size in melanoma and dysplastic nevus syndrome kindreds|journal=J. Natl. Cancer Inst.|volume=83|issue=23|pages=1726–1733|year=1991|pmid=1770551|doi=10.1093/jnci/83.23.1726}}</ref> Consequently, such persons need regular examinations to check for changes in their moles and to identify any new ones.
===Sunlight===
[[Ultraviolet]] (UV) light from the sun causes premature aging of the skin and skin damage that can lead to melanoma. Researchers hypothesized that overexposure to UV, including excessive sunlight, may play a role in the formation of acquired moles.<ref>{{cite journal |vauthors=van Schanke A, van Venrooij GM, Jongsma MJ, etal |title=Induction of nevi and skin tumors in Ink4a/Arf Xpa knockout mice by neonatal, intermittent, or chronic UVB exposures|journal=Cancer Res. |volume=66|issue=5|pages=2608–2615|year=2006|pmid=16510579|doi=10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-05-2476|hdl=10029/7145 |url= http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/cgi/pmidlookup?view=long&pmid=16510579|doi-access=free|hdl-access=free}}</ref> However, more research is needed to determine the complex interaction between genetic makeup and overall UV exposure. Some strong indications supporting this hypothesis (but falling short of proof) include:
*The relative lack of moles on the buttocks of people with dysplastic nevi
*The known influence of sunlight on [[freckle]]s (spots of melanin on the skin, distinct from moles)
Studies have found that sunburns and excessive sun exposure can increase risk factors for melanoma. This is in addition to the higher risk already faced by individuals with dysplastic nevi (the uncertainty is in regards to acquiring benign moles). To prevent and reduce the risk of melanoma caused by UV radiation, the [[American Academy of Dermatology]] and the [[National Cancer Institute]] recommend:
* Staying out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. standard time (or whenever one's shadow is shorter than one's height)
* Wearing long sleeves and trousers
* Wearing hats with a wide brim
* Applying sunscreens
* Wearing sunglasses that have UV-deflecting lenses<ref name="ncimelanoma" />
==Diagnosis==
[[File:Pie chart of incidence and malignancy of pigmented skin lesions.png|thumb|280px|Various [[differential diagnosis|differential diagnoses]] of pigmented skin lesions, including nevi, showing the relative [[incidence (epidemiology)|incidence]] of biopsied lesions, and their malignancy potential.]]
Clinical diagnosis can be made with the naked eye using the [[ABCD guideline]] or by using [[dermatoscopy]]. An online-screening test is also available to help screen out benign moles.
<gallery>
File:Dermatoscope1.JPG|A dermatoscope.
File:Dermatoscope.jpg|A modern polarized dermatoscope.
</gallery>
===Classification===
Melanocytic nevi can mainly be classified by depth, being congenital versus acquired, and/or specific dermatoscopic or [[histopathology|histopathologic]] patterns:
;Depth:
{|class="wikitable"
! Depth class !! Location of nevus cells !! Other characteristics !! Image !! [[International classification of diseases|ICD]] code
|-
! Junctional nevus
| Along the junction of the [[epidermis]] and the underlying [[dermis]].<ref>[http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary?CdrID=44285 Junctional nevus] entry in the public ___domain NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms </ref>
| May be colored and slightly raised.<ref>{{cite web |title=NCI Definition of Cancer Terms |url=https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/junctional-nevus |website=www.cancer.gov |publisher=National Cancer Institute |access-date=5 December 2018}}</ref>
| [[File:Skin Tumors-200.jpg|190px]]
| [[ICD10]]: D22<br>[[International Classification of Diseases for Oncology|ICDO]]: M8740/0
|-
! Compound nevus
|Both the epidermis and dermis.<ref>{{cite web |title=NCI Definition of Cancer Terms |url=https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/compound-nevus |website=www.cancer.gov |publisher=National Cancer Institute |access-date=5 December 2018}}</ref>
|
| [[File:Skin tumors-201.jpg|190px]]
| ICD10: D22 ([[ILDS]] D22.L14)<br>ICDO: 8760/0
|-
! Intradermal nevus
| Within the [[dermis]].
| A classic mole or [[birthmark]]. It typically appears as an elevated, dome-shaped bump on the surface of the skin.<ref name=mayo/><ref name=aad.org/>
| [[File:Micrograph of an intradermal melanocytic nevus.jpg|190px]]
|}
<gallery>
File:Histopathology of a dermal nevus.jpg|Small dermal nevus, with nests of nevus cells (arrows)
</gallery>
;Congenital versus acquired
*[[Congenital nevus]]: Small to large nevus present at or near time of birth. Small ones have low potential for forming [[melanomas]], however the risk increases with size, as in the giant pigmented nevus.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Reference|first=Genetics Home|title=Giant congenital melanocytic nevus|url=https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/giant-congenital-melanocytic-nevus/|access-date=2020-09-18|website=Genetics Home Reference|language=en}}</ref>
*'''Acquired nevus''': Any melanocytic nevus that is not a congenital nevus or not present at birth or near birth.
;
'''Specific dermatoscopic or histopathologic patterns'''
{|class="wikitable"
! Type !! Characteristics !! Photo-<br>graphy || [[Histopathology|Histo-<br>pathology]]
|-
| '''[[Dysplastic nevus]]''' || Usually a compound nevus with cellular and architectural [[dysplasia]]. Like typical moles, dysplastic nevi can be flat or raised. While they vary in size, dysplastic nevi are typically larger than normal moles and tend to have irregular borders and irregular coloration. Hence, they resemble [[melanoma]], appear worrisome, and are often removed to clarify the diagnosis. Dysplastic nevi are markers of risk when they are numerous, such as in people with [[dysplastic nevus syndrome]]. According to the [[National Institutes of Health|National Institute of Health]] (NIH), doctors believe that, when part of a series or syndrome of multiple moles, dysplastic nevi are more likely than ordinary moles to develop into the most virulent type of skin cancer called melanoma.<ref>{{cite web|title=Familial atypical multiple mole melanoma syndrome|url=https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/9281/familial-atypical-multiple-mole-melanoma-syndrome|website=Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD)|publisher=NIH|access-date=23 January 2018}}</ref>
| [[File:Dysplastic nevi (2) - crop.jpg|100px|left]]
In this case, the central portion is a complex papule, and the periphery is macular, irregular, indistinct and slightly pink.
| [[File:Dysplastic_nevus_-_add_-_high_mag.jpg|180px]] Characteristic [[rete ridge]] bridging, shouldering, and lamellar fibrosis. [[H&E stain]].
|-
| '''[[Blue nevus]]''' || It is blue in color as its [[melanocytes]] are very deep in the skin.
| [[File:Blue nevus on the foot.jpg|140px]]
| [[File:blue nevus - intermed mag.jpg|85px|left]] Characteristic pigmented [[melanocyte]]s between bundles of [[collagen]]. [[H&E stain]].
|-
| '''[[Spitz nevus]]''' || A distinct variant of intradermal nevus, usually in a child.
| [[File:Spitz nevus.jpg|180px]] They are raised and reddish (non-pigmented).
| [[Image:Spitz nevus - intermed mag.jpg|160px|left]] Characteristic vertically arranged nests of cells ("hanging bananas"). [[H&E stain]].
|-
| '''[[Giant pigmented nevus]]''' || Large, pigmented, often hairy congenital nevi. They are important because [[melanoma]] may occasionally (10 to 15%) appear in them.{{Citation needed|date=June 2016}}
| [[File:Giant melanocytic nevus - photography.jpg|180px]]
| [[File:Giant melanocytic nevus - histopathology.jpg|180px]]
|-
| '''[[Nevus of Ito]]''' and '''[[nevus of Ota]]''' || Congenital, flat brownish lesions on the face or shoulder.<ref>{{cite web|title=Nevus of Ito|url=https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/10830/nevus-of-ito|website=Genetic and Rare Disease Information Center (GARD)|publisher=NIH|access-date=23 January 2018}}</ref>
| [[File:Nevus of Ito.jpg|150px|left]] Nevus of Ito.
|
|-
| '''[[Mongolian spot]]''' || Congenital large, deep, bluish discoloration which generally disappears by puberty. It is named for its association with East Asian ethnic groups but is not limited to them.<ref>{{cite web|title=Mongolian Spot|url=http://www.aocd.org/?page=MongolianSpot|website=AOCD Dermatologic Disease Database|publisher=American Osteopathic College of Dermatology|access-date=23 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180124070605/http://www.aocd.org/?page=MongolianSpot|archive-date=24 January 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref>
| [[File:Mongolianspotphoto.jpg|150px]]
|
|}
;Recurrence
[[Recurrent nevus]]: Any incompletely removed nevus with residual melanocytes left in the surgical wound. It creates a dilemma for the patient and physician, as these scars cannot be distinguished from a melanoma.<ref name="abd">{{cite journal|title=The recurrent nevus phenomenon|journal=Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia|date=July–August 2017|volume=92|issue=4|pages=531–533|doi=10.1590/abd1806-4841.20176190|pmid=28954104|pmc=5595602|last1=Castagna|first1=Rafaella Daboit|last2=Stramari|first2=Juliana Mazzoleni|last3=Chemello|first3=Raíssa Massaia Londero}}</ref>
===Differentiation from melanoma===
It often requires a dermatologist to fully evaluate moles. For instance, a small blue or bluish-black spot, often called a blue nevus, is usually benign but often mistaken for [[melanoma]].<ref>{{cite journal|vauthors=Granter SR, McKee PH, Calonje E, Mihm MC, Busam K |title=Melanoma associated with blue nevus and melanoma mimicking cellular blue nevus: a clinicopathologic study of 10 cases on the spectrum of so-called 'malignant blue nevus'|journal=American Journal of Surgical Pathology|volume=25 |issue=3|pages= 316–323|date=March 2001|pmid=11224601|doi=10.1097/00000478-200103000-00005|s2cid=41306625}}</ref> Conversely, a junctional nevus, which develops at the junction of the dermis and epidermis, is potentially cancerous.<ref>{{cite journal|vauthors=Hall J, Perry VE |title=Tinea nigra palmaris: differentiation from malignant melanoma or junctional nevi|journal=Cutis| volume=62|issue=1|pages=45–46|year=1998|pmid=9675534}}</ref>
A basic approach to evaluating suspicious moles is found in the mnemonic A-B-C-D, used by institutions such as the American Academy of Dermatology and the National Cancer Institute (NCI). The letters stand for '''Asymmetry''', '''Border''', '''Color''', and '''Diameter'''.<ref name="aad.org" /><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cancer.gov/|title=What You Need To Know About Melanoma - Signs and Symptoms|date=January 1980|publisher=[[National Cancer Institute]]|access-date=2008-05-18}}</ref> Sometimes, the letter E (for '''Elevation or Evolving''') is added. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, if a mole starts changing in size, color, shape or, especially, if the border of a mole develops ragged edges or becomes larger than a pencil eraser, it would be an appropriate time to consult with a physician. Other warning signs include a mole, even if smaller than a pencil eraser, that is different from the others and begins to crust over, bleed, itch, or become [[Inflammation|inflamed]]. Such changes may indicate developing [[melanoma]]s.
A recent and novel method of melanoma detection is the "ugly duckling sign".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.skincancer.org/the-ugly-duckling-sign.html|title=The Ugly Duckling Sign: An Early Melanoma Recognition Tool|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20090130144704/http://www.skincancer.org/the-ugly-duckling-sign.html|archive-date=2009-01-30}}</ref><ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite journal |vauthors=Mascaro JM, Mascaro JM |title=The dermatologist's position concerning nevi: a vision ranging from 'the ugly duckling' to 'little red riding hood' |journal=Archives of Dermatology |volume=134 |issue=11 |pages=1484–1485 |date=November 1998 |pmid=9828892 |url=http://archderm.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?volume=134&page=1484 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140715101602/http://archderm.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?volume=134&page=1484 |url-status=dead |archive-date=2014-07-15 |doi=10.1001/archderm.134.11.1484 |url-access=subscription }}</ref> It is simple, easy to teach, and highly effective in detecting melanoma. Simply, correlation of common characteristics of a person's skin lesion is made. Lesions which greatly deviate from the common characteristics are labeled as an "ugly duckling", and further professional exam is required.{{Citation needed|date=June 2016}} The "little red riding hood sign",<ref name="ReferenceA"/> suggests that individuals with fair skin and light colored hair might have difficult-to-diagnose melanomas.{{Citation needed|date=June 2016}} Extra care and caution should be rendered when examining such individuals as they might have multiple melanomas and severely dysplastic nevi. A dermatoscope must be used to detect "ugly ducklings", as many melanomas in these individuals resemble non-melanomas or are considered to be "wolves in sheep clothing".<ref name="dermnetnz.org">{{cite web|url=http://dermnetnz.org/doctors/dermoscopy-course/introduction.html|title=Dermoscopy. Introduction to dermoscopy. DermNet NZ|date=3 March 2024 }}</ref> These fair skinned individuals often have lightly pigmented or amelanotic melanomas which will not present easy-to-observe color changes and variation in colors. The borders of these amelanotic melanomas are often indistinct, making visual identification without a [[dermatoscope]] very difficult.
People with a personal or family history of skin cancer or of [[dysplastic nevus syndrome]] (multiple atypical moles) should see a dermatologist at least once a year to be sure they are not developing melanoma.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dermcarestl.com/medical-services/skin-cancer/dysplastic-nevus-atypical-mole.html|title=Atypical Mole/Dyplastic Nevus - Skin Cancers - Medical Dermatology|website=DERMCARE|language=en|access-date=2018-08-13|archive-date=23 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190423104349/https://www.dermcarestl.com/medical-services/skin-cancer/dysplastic-nevus-atypical-mole.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>
==Management==
{{More citations needed|section|date=May 2020}}
First, a diagnosis must be made. If the lesion is suspected to be [[skin cancer]], a [[skin biopsy]] may be done before considering removal. Alternatively, an excisional biopsy with complete removal of the lesion may be done. Other reasons for removal may be cosmetic or because a raised mole interferes with daily life (e.g., shaving).
If a melanocytic nevus is suspected of being a [[melanoma]], it needs to be sampled or removed via skin biopsy, and sent for microscopic evaluation by a [[pathologist]]. Depending on the size and ___location of the original nevus, a complete excisional skin biopsy or a punch skin biopsy can be done. Removal can also occur by shaving. Shaving leaves a red mark on the site but changes to the patient's usual skin color in about 2 weeks. However, there might still be a risk of spread of the melanoma, so the methods of [[ABCD guideline|melanoma diagnosis]], including excisional biopsy, are still recommended even in these instances. Moles can also be removed by laser, surgery, or electrocautery.
[[Laser medicine|Medical lasers]] can be used to remove flat moles (those level with the surface of the skin), as well as some raised moles, leaving a [[Wound healing#Proliferative phase|scab]]. Some dermatologists think lasers are not the best method for removing moles because the laser only [[cauterization|cauterizes]] or, in certain cases, removes very superficial levels of skin. Moles tend to go deeper into the skin than non-invasive lasers can penetrate. A second concern about laser treatment is that if the lesion is a melanoma, and was misdiagnosed as a benign mole, the procedure might delay diagnosis. If the mole is incompletely removed by the laser, and the pigmented lesion regrows, it might form a [[recurrent nevus]].
For surgery, many dermatologic and plastic surgeons first use a freezing solution, usually [[liquid nitrogen]], on a raised mole and then shave it away with a [[scalpel]]. If the surgeon opts for the shaving method, they usually also cauterize the stump. However, freezing should not be done to a nevus suspected to be a melanoma, as the ice crystals can cause pathological changes called "freezing artifacts" which might interfere with the diagnosis of the melanoma.
Electrocautery is a procedure that uses an electrical current to burn moles, [[skin tags]], and [[warts]] off the skin. Electric currents are set to a level such that they only reach the outermost layers of the skin, thus reducing the problem of scarring. Approximately 1–3 treatments may be needed to completely remove a mole. Typically, a local anesthetic is applied to the treated skin area before beginning the mole removal procedure.<ref>{{cite book|last=Habif|first=Thomas P.|title=Clinical dermatology, a color guide to diagnosis and therapy|publisher=Mosby|year=1985|isbn=0-8016-2233-6|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/clinicaldermatol0000habi}}{{page needed|date=July 2014}}</ref>
===Mole removal risks===
The risks of mole removal mainly depend on the type of method used. First, mole removal may be followed by some discomfort that can be relieved with [[pain medication]]. Second, there is a risk that a scab will form or that redness will occur. However, such scabs and redness usually heal within 1 or 2 weeks.{{Citation needed|date=June 2016}} Third, similar to other surgeries, there is also risk of infection, bleeding, [[allergic reactions to anesthesia]], or even [[nerve damage]]. Lastly, the mole removal may leave an uncomfortable scar depending on the mole size.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.emedicinehealth.com/mole_removal/page3_em.htm|title=Mole Removal|access-date=2010-05-04}}</ref>
==Society and culture==
[[File:Abraham Lincoln head on shoulders photo portrait.jpg|thumb|[[Abraham Lincoln]] famously had a mole on his right cheek.]]
Throughout human history, individuals who have possessed facial moles have been subject to ridicule and attack based on superstition. Throughout most of history, facial moles were not considered objects of beauty on lovely faces. Rather, most moles were considered hideous growths that appeared mostly on the noses, cheeks, and chins of [[Witchcraft|witches]], frogs, and other low creatures.{{Cn|date=June 2024}}
During the [[Salem witch trials]], [[Wart|warts]] and other dermatological lesions such as moles, scars, and other blemishes, found on accused women were considered evidence of a pact with the devil.<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Flotte|first1=T. J.|last2=Bell|first2=D. A.|date=1989-12-01|title=Role of skin lesions in the Salem witchcraft trials|journal=The American Journal of Dermatopathology|volume=11|issue=6|pages=582–587|issn=0193-1091|pmid=2690652|doi=10.1097/00000372-198912000-00014}}</ref>
===Face mole reading===
In traditional Chinese culture, facial moles are used in divination or fortune telling ([[moleomancy]]). Moles that can be easily seen may be considered warnings or reminders, while hidden moles may symbolize good luck and fortune. Furthermore, traditional Chinese culture holds that each facial mole indicates the presence of a corresponding mole on another part of the body. For instance, if a mole is present around the mouth, a corresponding mole should be found in the pubic region.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.chinesefortunecalendar.com/FaceMoleReading.htm|title=Chinese Face Reading - Facial Mole and Your Fate|access-date=2010-05-04}}</ref>
==See also==
*[[Mole map (dermatology)|Mole map]]
*[[Beauty mark]]
==References==
{{reflist}}
==External links==
{{Medical resources
| DiseasesDB = 8333
| ICD10 = {{ICD10|D|22||d|10}}
| ICD9 = {{ICD9|216}}
| ICDO =
| OMIM =
| MedlinePlus =
| eMedicineSubj = derm
| eMedicineTopic = 289
| MeshID = D009508
}}
*{{Commonscatinline}}
*[http://www.cancer.gov/types/skin/moles-fact-sheet Common Moles, Dysplastic Nevi, and Risk of Melanoma] - National Cancer Institute.
{{Skin tumors, nevi and melanomas}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Melanocytic Nevus}}
[[Category:Melanocytic nevi and neoplasms]]
[[Category:Benign neoplasms]]
| |||