Sweden
A 25-year-old female asked:
How does a skin doctor determine whether a mole is benign or malignant?
1 doctor answer • 1 doctor weighed in

Dr. Lewis Hassellanswered
Pathology 41 years experience
Pigmented lesions: Key features that suggest a need for excision or biopsy of a pigmented lesion are 1)irregular vs. smooth margins, 2) variation in pigmentation; 3) any asymmetry; and 4) change in appearance/ or size. The appearance is only one key factor however. The patient history or family history, amountof sun damage and other factors may also influence the urgency for biopsy.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
2.4k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Aug 16, 2015
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