If your skin is speckled with several moles, your primary care physician has probably examined them during a checkup. However, it’s also important to understand the proper way to check out your moles in the event they change or develop into something abnormal. Discover more about the different types of moles and how you can properly scan them to ensure your overall wellness.

Are There Different Types of Moles?

Many people don’t realize you can have different types of moles, each with its own set of specifications. A mole that is present at birth will be referred to as congenital and should be monitored by your primary care physician for any changes to appearance or texture because they can develop into cancer. Acquired moles are the ones that develop throughout child or adulthood. These are often caused by sun exposure but do not carry a cancer risk. Atypical moles, however, have an increased risk of turning into cancer and are typically abnormal in appearance, whether they are a different color, large or have an irregular border. Atypical moles typically run in families and warrant observation from your primary care physician.

When Should You See Your Doctor About a Mole?

Many moles are simply spots on the skin and pose no threat to an individual. However, there are common markers to look for—the ABCDEs of moles—that require a checkup with your primary care physician. A stands for asymmetry, which means one half of the mole doesn’t look like the other. The letter B represents border, meaning you should see a doctor if the outline of your mole is irregular.

C stands for color; if you notice a mole with varied shades, this should be checked out. D examines the diameter of your mole, so if it’s larger than a pencil eraser, it should be inspected. Meanwhile, E represents evolution; if you notice a mole changing in shape, color or size, this warrants an examination. While many moles pose no threat to your health, it’s important to have any suspicious marks inspected by a doctor to rule out any potential issues.

Whether you recently developed a mole or are concerned with the appearance of one, schedule a visit with a primary care physician at Patient Choice Medical Center in Hamden, CT, for an examination. The doctors on staff provide one-on-one patient services, ranging from wellness visits to more comprehensive evaluations. To learn more about the services this facility offers, visit them online or call (203) 535-0262 to schedule an appointment.