Does a Suddenly Raised Mole Always Indicate Melanoma?

Question

Based on your experience throughout the years does a suddenly raised mole always indicate melanoma? Has that been the case with all your patients? I have a tiny slightly larger than a pin prick, dark brown mole on my upper thigh. Its become raised in the last 1-2 months. No other changes from what I can tell. It doesn't hurt or itch. I just want to know if there have been cases in which a suddenly raised mole has not been melanoma. Thank you.

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS · Answer

If there is a suspicious mole that you are concerned about, it is always a good idea to have it evaluated and biopsied.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Melanoma sometimes is obvious on examination, and other times not.  A true diagnosis can only be obtained under the microscope.  Rapidly progressing moles, however, are more suspicious.

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

A suddenly raised mole does not always indicate melanoma. In fact, a suddenly raised mole, in most cases, will not be melanoma. There are several factors which can be signs of a potential melanoma, including size, color, and irregularity. If you have a concern with your mole though, I would see a dermatologist to have it checked.

Sheetal Sapra, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Moles can change for many reasons and not all of them are malignancy. I always recommend that if a lesion on the skin appears suddenly, changes in any way, you should have it checked by a Dermatologist. This way, if it is worrisome, he or she can send it away for testing. This way it will alleviate your anxiety.
Good luck and I hope this answer was helpful.
Best regards,
Sheetal Sapra, MD

Kris M. Reddy, MD, FACS · Answer

Most pigmented lesions that suddenly rise generally are okay. While there is a chance, it can be a melanoma the chances are small. Consult with a dermatologist so he or she can evaluate to determine if a biopsy can evaluate.

Does a Suddenly Raised Mole Always Indicate Melanoma?

Answers (9)