5 diseases moles on your body might indicate and should not be ignored

Most people have moles-- which are the small brown or black spots on the skin-- and they are generally harmless. However, some moles can also be subtle cues for underlying health issues, especially if they change in shape, size, or colour. While many moles are benign, others may be early warning signs of genetic conditions or even diseases like skin cancer. And so, it is important to regularly examine your moles to notice any changes especially for-- Asymmetry, Border, Colour, Diameter, and Evolving (ABCDE rule). Here we list some diseases that unusual or changing moles may point to—and why a skin check matters.

One of the most serious disease changing moles indicate is of Melanoma, which is a dangerous type of skin cancer. Watch out for moles that are asymmetrical, have irregular borders, show changes in colour, are larger than a pencil eraser, or are chaning in their shape or size. If you notice any of these, then consider them as major red flags. Melanoma often starts as a mole but spreads rapidly if not caught early. If you notice any risky moles, consult your doctor or dermatologist immediately.

Dysplastic nevi syndrome is a health condition wherein a person is having many atypical moles, which can look irregular and mimic melanoma (skin cancer). While these moles are not not cancerous, they can highly increase the risk of developing melanoma in the future. People with this syndrome may have dozens or even hundreds of unusual moles, and they should keep a check on any risky ones. A 2014 study on 'Dysplastic Nevi and Melanoma' reads, "dysplastic nevi should be considered important because of their association with an increased risk for melanoma."

Familial atypical mole and melanoma (FAMMM) is a genetic condition where people inherit the tendency to develop many atypical moles and have a higher risk of getting skin cancer. And so, if you have a family history of melanoma and lots of moles on your body that look unusual, then don't take them lightly. It could be a red flag. Do consult your dermatologist for cancer prevention or treatment.

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) generally looks like pearly bumps. But some flat or pigmented moles can actually be early signs of this common form of skin cancer. It’s less aggressive than melanoma but still needs early detection and prompt treatment. So, keep an eye on any changes on your moles and consult your dermatologist too.

Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) is a genetic disorder and it is often presents with “café-au-lait” spots— which are flat, light brown moles. Having six or more such spots that are larger than 5mm in children or 15mm in adults may indicate NF1. They should not be ignored as such moles can cause tumours on nerve tissues.