Help me understand a "mildly dysplastic nevus" on my scalp? Appears to be a common mole nearby. I don't know the age of either.

Question

I am a 35 yo F, fair skinned, typical (I think) sun exposure in the past, only a few other regular moles and freckles. No family history of melanoma. I am extremely anxious about the location of these nevi. Am I likely to get more? Likely to be in same region? Is it normal to have a new acquired mole in my 30s? How much does this raise my risk? I have a skin check with a PA soon, but cannot see a BC derm for several months!

Nirmal Nathan, MD · Answer

Dear kennanme,Thank you for your question. Although I am a plastic surgeon, I am referred dysplastic nevi frequently for excision and would like to comment. Dysplastic nevi have changes on pathology that make them higher risk for melanoma, but they are NOT malignant. Rather, they are precancerous and are on a spectrum. Depending on the level of dysplasia, your dermatologist may decide to follow them over time, excise the mole, or refer you to a plastic surgeon for excision. Make sure you follow-up with a dermatologist for your skin checks.Good luck,Nirmal R. Nathan, M.D.
  
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Help me understand a "mildly dysplastic nevus" on my scalp? Appears to be a common mole nearby. I don't know the age of either.

Answers (1)