Will a severely atypical mole indicate melanoma on biopsy? I just had second incision and wait for further answers.

Question

Would a biopsy diagnosis of a severely atypical mole indicate melanoma? They wanted to re excise again to get further margins. Wouldn't they know from first biopsy it was melanoma? Maybe this was to remove all skin to be safe. My derm said she would let me know next week. But again, cannot the first biopsy tell if melanoma or not?

Peter J. Malouf, DO · Answer

Hello,
If the first biopsy showed atypical nevus, it is highly unlikely, although not impossible, that the diagnosis will change.The second procedure likely represent the derms attemp to remove the lesion.

Mitchell Schwartz, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Atypical moles are pre-cancerous growths so they are not melanomas. To be safe and ensure complete removal of these growths, in our office we will do an excision with suture closure
to get clear margins for all moles that have moderate to severe atypia. We also follow all of our
"atypical mole" patients by doing full skin examinations every six
months.You can follow the video link to learn more about identifying the
changes in moles that are suspicious for skin cancer.

Will a severely atypical mole indicate melanoma on biopsy? I just had second incision and wait for further answers.

Answers (2)

More Mole Removal Questions

Will a severely atypical mole indicate melanoma on biopsy? I just had second incision and wait for further answers.

Answers (2)

More Mole Removal Questions

What is the best method for removing a raised facial mole? (photo)

Is this black spot on my back serious? (photo)

What is the average time for scars to heal after electrocautery?