Moles, which are melanocytic nevi, are a common skin feature present at birth.
Moles visible at birth or developing in the first 1-2 years of life are called congenital melanocytic nevi. Although most moles are small, some will continue to grow as the child grows.
Moles in infants and potential skin cancer
Moles in infants carry a risk of transforming into skin cancer, mainly when exhibiting unusual growth or modifications.
Changes occur in the moles
Mole transformations, such as accelerated growth, shifts in color from lighter to darker or vice versa, alterations in shape and size, and asymmetrical and irregular borders, warrant close attention as possible signs of cancer.
Has the appearance of a Spitz nevus
Spitz nevus is a type of non-cancerous mole that usually appears in childhood. These moles typically appear as round, pink bumps that look flat or rough and have a blue, black, or brown color.
Although Spitz nevus is nothing to worry about, you still need to take your baby to the doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and ensure that it is not skin cancer.
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Bleeding mole
Protruding moles are more susceptible to injury and irritation, but sometimes, moles can bleed for no apparent reason. If a mole appears to have an open wound, bleeds, or breaks for no apparent reason, this could be a sign of melanoma.
A large number of mole
It's natural for children to have new moles as they grow older. The average child aged 15-19 can have around 12-20 moles.
So if you find that there are more than 50 moles on your baby, then you need to take him to get a doctor's examination. An excessive number of moles increases the risk of developing melanoma.
Big mole
Moles generally have a relatively small size. However, in some children, their moles can be much more significant.
Having large moles increases the risk of developing melanoma. Children with large moles should receive supervision and monitoring to detect suspicious changes and signs.
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Is it necessary to remove children's moles?
In general, moles on babies and children do not need to be removed unless there are medical or aesthetic reasons. If the mole bothers you, feels uncomfortable, or rubs frequently, you can talk to a dermatologist to evaluate whether it is necessary to remove the mole.
Excessive sun exposure can increase the number of moles and cause them to become darker in color. To prevent the appearance of new moles and protect existing moles, it is best to give children sunscreen and clothing that protects the skin when outside the house.
Curious about moles in infants and kids? The Ai Care application, downloadable from the App Store or Play Store, offers health consultation services that can provide more details.
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- dr. Monica Salim
American Academy of Dermatology Association. 5 Signs Your Child's Mole Needs to Be Checked. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/signs-your-childs-mole-be-checked
Karen Miles. Moles. Available from: https://www.babycenter.com/health/conditions/moles_1435115
Cincinati's Children (2023). What are Moles (Congenital Melanocytic Nevi)?. Available from: https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/m/moles-congenital-melanocytic-nevi
Natalie Silver (2019). What You Need to Know About a Mole on Your Baby. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/skin/mole-on-baby
Skin Cancer Foundation (2021). Melanoma Warning Signs. Available from: https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/melanoma/melanoma-warning-signs-and-images/
Cancer Research UK (2024). Symptoms of melanoma skin cancer. Available from: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/melanoma/symptoms
Cleveland Clinic (2022). Spitz Nevus. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24439-spitz-nevus
Amanda Barrell (2024). What causes a bleeding mole?. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322703
Mayo Clinic (2023). Moles. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/moles/symptoms-causes/syc-20375200