Can scratching a mole cause cancer?

Question

I'm asking because I scratched a mole off my neck and I need to know if it can cause cancer.

Eric Seiger, DO · Answer

No, scratching a benign mole will not make said mole
cancerous. If it is just a mole, scratching it will do you no harm. However,
the fact that your mole is itchy can be a sign of a mole that has the potential
to be cancerous. As such, if you notice a constant itchiness around the mole,
or that itching it causes it to become inflamed, bleed, or otherwise grow, it
is very important that you contact a dermatologist immediately for a cancer
screening.

Edward J. Gross, MD · Answer

Scratching a mole does not cause skin cancer; however, a pre-cancerous or cancerous mole can be itchy. It is possible to partially scrape off a mole by repeated trauma or picking. See a Plastic Surgeon or Dermatologist for a skin check- up

Jeremy S. Hurren, BSc, MBBS, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

Scratching a mole will not turn it cancerous. However cancerous moles can be itchy or more easily traumatised. Moles that show changes, become itchy or bleed should be examined by a doctor with expertise in the diagnosis of moles (pigmented lesions).Best wishes

Can scratching a mole cause cancer?

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Can scratching a mole cause cancer?

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