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A member asked:
If an atypical mole is growing will it definitely be malignant? or can it increase in size for a while before it becomes malignant?
3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Don't take a chance!: An atypical mole by definition means that it looks abnormal under the microscope and has features that may be worrisome. However, if the mole is growing and is atypical it should be completely excised as soon as possible! it is important that you discuss this with your dermatologist. Melanoma is a serious cancer and if not removed early can be lethal.
Answered 4/26/2016
5.4k views
No, but get it out: An atypical mole means that the mole is suspicious looking for being malignant. It may have some precancerous cells or be a cancer. A malignancy is a lesion with the ability to metastasize. Some skin malignancies have a low ability to metastasize (basal cell) while some have a much higher likelihood (melanoma). Either way, if it is a atypical mole, have it biopsied to find out or removed!
Answered 6/27/2019
5.4k views
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