Moles or warts usually don’t warrant advanced treatment unless they cause pain and soreness or evolve into cancers. A dermatology specialist can help you remove moles for cosmetic reasons or if they cause discomfort, such as stinging, itching, and bleeding. You can also monitor the moles to find out if they’re harmless or malignant. Here’s a look at how to tell if moles or warts are cancerous:
The ABCDE Rule
Moles are more likely to develop into cancer than warts. A dermatology specialist can use the ABCDE rule to determine if the mole is harmless or cancerous. The ABCDE rule examines asymmetry, border, color, diameter, and evolving differences between normal and cancerous moles. Cancerous moles are asymmetrical, meaning one-half of the mole is larger than the other. They also tend to have irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined borders.
Cancerous moles also have color variations, including shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue. The diameter of cancerous moles and warts is usually larger than the size of a pencil eraser. Cancerous moles and warts also evolve in terms of shape, size, and color. Monitoring changes in size, shape, color, and texture can help determine if the mole is normal or cancerous. If one or all the ABCDE rules apply, speak to your dermatologist immediately for further screening and diagnosis.
Note the Symptoms
Moles are slow-developing noncancerous skin growths that form when melanocytes or pigment cells grow in clusters. They are usually harmless and only begin to change when they become malignant. Warts are hard bumps deeply seated in the skin and appear smooth on the outside. They are thick, scaly, and calloused on the inside and can be contagious if caused by a virus. Warts also tend to develop on your hands, knees, or the soles of your feet. Moles usually have both color and hair, while warts often assume your skin’s complexion except for rare cases.
Normal moles and warts maintain their size, texture, and color and don’t cause discomfort unless they appear on the bottom of your feet. If the moles appear white, waxy, or scar-like, seek medical advice. Red or pink growths with depressed centers and sores that don’t heal or that recur soon after healing also require professional diagnosis. Other symptoms that warrant skin cancer screening include itching, bleeding, or oozing from the mole or wart.
Consult Your Dermatologist
Whether your moles are harmless or cancerous, they might interrupt everyday tasks like dressing or bathing. Dermatologists offer various treatment options, including cryotherapy, surgical excision, electrosurgery, cutterage, and topical solutions. Consulting a dermatologist can help you remove the moles and warts, effectively eliminating any discomfort they cause. They also offer various cancer screening tests to determine if the moles and warts are malignant.
If you’re concerned your moles and warts are cancerous, speak to your dermatologist. The doctors can assess your medical history and symptoms and perform thorough examinations, including cancer biopsies. Identifying cancerous moles and warts early could help to prevent the condition from worsening. Dermatologists also offer individualized treatment for benign growths to improve your skin’s aesthetics and relieve discomfort.
Find an Experienced Doctor of Dermatology Today Moles and warts, whether benign or malignant, might cause uncomfortable sensations when touched or pulled on. If you have them, a professional diagnosis can help you find effective treatment. Contact a dermatology specialist today to find out more about moles, warts, and skin cancer treatments.
