What are Atypical Moles?

Dysplastic nevi, also referred to as atypical moles, may be inherited or occur sporadically.  Approximately 50% of the population has dysplastic moles.

Normal moles develop in childhood and early adulthood. Dysplastic nevi begin to appear near puberty and continue to develop over your lifetime. These moles signify an increased risk for melanoma.

Rules:

A – Asymetrical (you fold the mole in half and it does not match)  

B – Borders, irregular (edges appear jagged or bubbly)

C – Color Variation (having multiple colors or simply being dark, blue, red or white)

D – Diameter (>6mm-approximately the size of a pencil eraser)

E – Evolving (changing over time)