Atypical Moles and History of Tanning - Melanoma Panic?

Atypia is not uncommon, but dysplasia can be a risk factor for cancer progression.  I would avoid sun tanning any further and maintain close vigilance of future moles. Raffy Karamanoukian Los Angeles

Atypical nevi are not uncommon and are not the same as melanoma.  Several risk factors exist that increase your risk of getting skin cancer, including fair skin type and family history. Having multiple moles also increases the risk.  These are risk factors but do not mean that you will get skin cancer.  If you were to develop skin cancer, most of these are treatable if caught early...

You can reduce your risk of having problems by learning to do skin self exams and watch for changing or new moles.   I would also recommend having regular checkups by a dermatologist and inquiring about having the dermatologist use photography to document your moles and help pick up new or changing moles at your visit.

The single most important factor in melanoma risk is a strong family history.  Red hair, blue eyes and a great deal of prior sun are additional risks.  Patients with dysplastic nevi are probably at somewhat greater risk than the general population, however a direct correlation is not clearly established because the definition and determination of "dysplastic" is not black and white.  I would suggest annual skin checks with your dermatologist, and consider "mole mapping"( computerized photography ) or use of Melafind at their recommendation if it will ease your concerns.