These questions relate to a general overview of moles. For further information, click on "Get more information" to the left.

1. What makes a mole dangerous?
2. My mole is irritated, what should I do?
3. Where can I find more information on moles?

1. What makes a mole dangerous?
When we look at moles, we look at the ABCD's which are as follows:
A: Asymmetry (a mole that is uneven in shape)
B: Border (a smooth, even border is good, uneven, puzzle shaped moles are more suspicious)
C: Color (one color is preferred to 2 or more colors and lighter browns are better than dark browns and black)
D: Diameter (moles over 6mm or the size of a pencil eraser, may raise suspicion)
In additon to the ABCD's, moles that become symptomatic (burn, bleed, itch) or change in color, size, or shape are also concerning


2. My mole is irritated, what should I do?
If your mole has become irritated, bled, or changed, it is probably a good idea to have your doctor check the area


3. Where can I find more information on moles?
There are many sites that have helpful information on moles:
The Skin Cancer Foundation and MelanomaNet are two of them