Dysplastic Nevi (Atypical Moles)

What Are Dysplastic Nevi?

Dermatologists classify moles as either common nevi or dysplastic nevi.

Common nevi are typically:

  • Small.
  • Round or oval.
  • A single color.
  • Smooth.

Nevi that appear atypical and show changes under pathologic evaluation that differ from normal nevi are called Dysplastic nevi, and have a very different appearance.

They are:

  • Larger (more than 5mm or ¼-inch in diameter).
  • Irregularly shaped around the edges or asymmetrical, such that one half does not match the other half.
  • More than one color and in particular, various shades of brown or red.
  • Change over time in size, shape, color, or surface texture/elevation.

A significant number of the population has atypical or dysplastic nevi, and while these may in some people be associated with melanoma, most are not. Atypical or dysplastic nevi are not skin cancers, and often do not become melanoma, although having them appears to increase your risk of developing melanoma, an aggressive and potentially deadly form of skin cancer.

You should visit the dermatologist or your primary care physician for annual skin cancer screening to watch for any changes or new growths.

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