About this condition
A melanocytic naevus, often called a mole, is usually a benign pigmented skin lesion. Most remain harmless and need no removal, but some changes require closer examination rather than assumptions based on a photograph.
What matters most
Moles differ in colour, size and shape. New lesions and gradual changes can occur as children and adults grow. A changing mole is not automatically skin cancer, but the pattern of change, patient history and examination guide further decisions.
Symptoms and reasons to seek care
Seek assessment for a mole that changes markedly in colour, shape or border, grows unusually quickly, bleeds without injury, forms a persistent sore or develops repeated crusting. Itching alone is nonspecific, yet persistent symptoms should be discussed.
How it differs from similar conditions
Not all dark spots are naevi, and not every changing naevus is malignant. A benign stable mole may need no treatment, whereas an atypical lesion requires appropriate dermatoscopic evaluation and sometimes tissue diagnosis.
Assessment and diagnosis
A dermatologist or another qualified skin clinician reviews the history and examines the lesion and surrounding skin. Dermoscopy may reveal details not visible to the naked eye. A suspicious lesion may require specialist referral and histological examination when removed.
Monitoring and treatment
Stable benign naevi are often observed. Removal decisions depend on risk, symptoms and location, not solely on cosmetic preference or a price list. Do not burn or cut a suspicious mole at home; the page does not promise a specific excision method or provider.
When emergency help is needed
Bleeding that cannot be controlled after injury or severe wound infection requires prompt care; call 103 or 112 in a serious emergency. A rapidly changing or spontaneously bleeding pigmented lesion should be examined without unnecessary delay, even if there is no pain.
Related information
Epidermoid cyst in a child; Atheroma in children; Lipoma beneath the skin.
Signs and symptoms
Seek assessment for a mole that changes markedly in colour, shape or border, grows unusually quickly, bleeds without injury, forms a persistent sore or develops repeated crusting. Itching alone is nonspecific, yet persistent symptoms should be discussed.
Diagnosis and tests
A dermatologist or another qualified skin clinician reviews the history and examines the lesion and surrounding skin. Dermoscopy may reveal details not visible to the naked eye. A suspicious lesion may require specialist referral and histological examination when removed.
Care and treatment approaches
Stable benign naevi are often observed. Removal decisions depend on risk, symptoms and location, not solely on cosmetic preference or a price list. Do not burn or cut a suspicious mole at home; the page does not promise a specific excision method or provider.
When to seek urgent care
Bleeding that cannot be controlled after injury or severe wound infection requires prompt care; call 103 or 112 in a serious emergency. A rapidly changing or spontaneously bleeding pigmented lesion should be examined without unnecessary delay, even if there is no pain.
Frequently asked questions
Does every mole need removal?
No. Many stable benign moles can be monitored, with management guided by clinical findings.
Can a mole that changes be assessed by a photo alone?
A photograph can document change but does not replace examination, dermoscopy or histology when indicated.
Should a suspicious mole be removed for cosmetic reasons?
A potentially suspicious lesion requires diagnostic planning first; the method must allow appropriate assessment.
Information sources
Medical source links used when preparing this article.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
