Moles that need immediate attention but are not treated immediately can possibly lead to precancerous moles over time. To most of us who are not aware of the medical conditions and cases, we often ask, "What is a precancerous mole?"
Precancerous moles are moles that are not yet classified as cancerous but may develop into being cancerous when not given medical attention at the early stage of skin condition. Precancerous lesion is actually a change in skin growth or appearance that is not cancerous. Moles that appear to have abnormal characteristics must be seen by a dermatologist to assure that the condition is not cancer.
Cancerous moles, on the other hand, are considered malignant melanomas which have been developed from atypical moles. Melanoma is a dangerous form of skin cancer; it is common in people with fair skin and freckled skin, also in people with dark skin. Exposure to the harmful rays of sunlight and radiation of high technology equipments would increase the cancer formation in the skin. Melanoma that is detected early has a greater chance of being treated and cured.
Melanoma as a skin cancer often spreads to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system and through the bloodstream. Once you develop signs and symptoms that point to precancerous moles, a biopsy of mole cell will be necessary to know if it is really cancerous. If the result confirms a melanoma, the physician will do some more examinations to determine how far the cancer cells have spread in the body.
Actually, it is hard to tell the difference between precancerous mole and early stage melanoma. Dysplastic nevus or atypical mole is considered as precancerous mole because they have the characteristics that brought suspicions as being cancerous such as having irregular borders and asymmetrical in form. These may come out to be non-cancerous but may also develop into being a melanoma over time if not treated properly.
Dysplastic nevus is one of the most common forms of precancerous mole. It usually runs in the family and shows irregular characteristics that may eventually lead to melanoma. Although not all dysplastic nevi are cancerous, it would be better that a dermatologist screen it to prevent cancer formation.
Aktinic keratosis is another common type of the precancerous growth in the skin. This is usually linked to longer sun exposure. It usually appears at the face, neck, arms, and hands. Some part of the upper chest and upper back also get affected by this condition. Other parts that get affected but not usually exposed to sunlight are explained as caused by exposure to radiation and chemicals.
Knowing the characteristics of your mole and the causes and effects of it will help to give you a clean indication of whether you need to be seen for a a precancerous mole. Self-monitoring and observation of your skin will help in the early detection of precancerous moles and can even save you from the danger of cancerous malignant melanoma.
Prevention is always the best cure for any kind of disease, especially for this type of skin cancer. The best way to prevent skin cancer from moles is to detect and treat early. Avoiding exposure to sunlight and chemical substances from skin products will also help you prevent the melanoma condition.
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