“When should one get a mole biopsied?”
I have a mole on my upper chest that may have been changing size over the last few years. When is the right time to get a biopsy performed on a mole?
3 Answers
Changes in size, shape or color of moles are warning bells that a mole needs to be checked out by a dermatologist who can examine it under magnificant and with a surface microscope, called a dermatoscope, and if deemed necessary can biopsy it and send out the laboratory to determine if the change in the mole respresents the develop of a very serious mole cancer, known as malignant melanoma. Bottom line: see a dermatologist asap.
Any changing mole is a concern, on average moles that change in size, color, shape should be assessed immediately for malignancy. Please visit your dermatologist to get more recommendations and for your yearly skin exams.
As soon as it starts changing. Make an appointment with a board certified dermatologist.
