hello. The punch biopsy removed a small peice of the mole and left the rest behind. The report on the biopsy says: "There are solitary and nested melanocytes in the dermis. Indvidual melanocytes have small monomorphous nuclei: Diagnosis: Intradermal melanocytic nevus." My question is, since the mole was tested as benign, what are the chances the remaining mole could turn cancerous? They said since it was benign my ins wont pay to have the rest removed.
March 21, 2011
Answer: Residual mole after biopsy
Dear Hannahbaby,
You can be reassured that the biopsy has come back as a benign intradermal naevus and you do not need the rest of the mole removed unless you want to have it removed for cosmetic reasons.
Skin cancers can develop anywhere on the skin, so you should be vigilant for any changes in all of your skin and your moles, but there is no need to be any more concerned about this residual mole, than you are of any of your moles. Intradermal naevi are very common and completely benign (not cancerous).
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March 21, 2011
Answer: Residual mole after biopsy
Dear Hannahbaby,
You can be reassured that the biopsy has come back as a benign intradermal naevus and you do not need the rest of the mole removed unless you want to have it removed for cosmetic reasons.
Skin cancers can develop anywhere on the skin, so you should be vigilant for any changes in all of your skin and your moles, but there is no need to be any more concerned about this residual mole, than you are of any of your moles. Intradermal naevi are very common and completely benign (not cancerous).
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March 21, 2011
Answer: Punch biopsies are a good thing!
Once you have a biopsy proven benign mole insurance companies regard removing any remaining pigmented skin in the same area as a cosmetic procedure and therefore will not pay. With regard to whether or not the remaining pigment will turn cancerous, it is difficult to determine without a physical exam. You made a good first step by getting a tissue biopsy. You should now discuss your concerns with the doctor who performed the original procedure. Good luck!
Dr. Singer
Helpful
March 21, 2011
Answer: Punch biopsies are a good thing!
Once you have a biopsy proven benign mole insurance companies regard removing any remaining pigmented skin in the same area as a cosmetic procedure and therefore will not pay. With regard to whether or not the remaining pigment will turn cancerous, it is difficult to determine without a physical exam. You made a good first step by getting a tissue biopsy. You should now discuss your concerns with the doctor who performed the original procedure. Good luck!
Dr. Singer
Helpful