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Moles -- Skin Growths That Could Become Skin Cancer
All moles, also called nevi, were once thought to be harmless, some were even called beauty spots. How times have changed. Scientists now realize that some of these growths can be dangerous, actually contributing to melanoma, a form of
skin cancer.
Simply put, moles or nevi are growths on the skin. These growths occur when cells in the skin, called melanocytes, grow in a cluster with tissue surrounding them.
These growths are very common with most people having between 10 and 40 of these growths on their body. Such things as sun exposure can contribute to these growths developing.
About one out of every ten people have at least one unusual (or atypical) nevi that looks different from an ordinary one.
The medical term for these unusual growths is dysplactic nevi. These are dangerous nevi as they are more likely to develop into melanoma.
How can you tell the difference between a harmless growth or one that could develop into cancer? Watch the following video that explains the A,B,C,D,and E of identify harmful moles.
For more information on this important topic and to see more pictures on how to tell the difference between the two types of nevi visit
National Cancer Institute.
As you can see moles or nevi can be harmless skin growths or they can grow to become melanoma, a dangerous and deadly form of skin cancer. As the doctor said in the video, you should have someone check any growths on your back or other areas that you cann't see. Your life may depend on it.
