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If a mole was atypical, then got "better", should we cancel the skin cancer check appointment? Details important

Day 1: Mole is symmetrical. Borders are clearly defined. It does have a black dot in the centre. Diameter is larger than a pencil eraser. There are two hairs in the mole, which apparently is a good sign. So upon seeing the hairs I thought nothing of it

I forgot about the mole

Day 14: Mole is scabby, irritated, painful. There is more black stuff on it. It is now asymmetrical. Borders are still clearly defined. Diameter is still larger than a pencil eraser. Two colours black and brown. Two hairs are still in there, but we decided to make an appointment anyway, because the other symptoms were suspicious

Day 21: The black disappeared, no longer scabby or irritated, but where there were two hairs, there is now only one. I suspect the mole may be a different shade of brown, but human memory can be unreliable when detecting whether one shade is different to another shade of the same colour. It's not like light brown to dark brown or dark brown to light brown. It's not *obvious* like that. It's more light brown to lighter brown with me being unsure if it really did go lighter. For all I know it's back to its normal colour and Im just remember it wrong

Still worth checking it out? Or would it be a waste of money?

  1. changing moles definitely give you a lot to think about. A common saying in this community is "when in doubt, get it checked out." For your peace of mind, I suggest you follow up with a dermatologist to see if he/she wants to do a biopsy. It sounds like you are doing a great job with self-exams and you know what to look for when thinking about changes in spots. You have already taken that critical first step.


    Please feel free to reach out at any time. This community is here for you! Keep us posted!
    April, SkinCancer.net, Moderator

    1. If it were me, I would go see a dermatologist to put my mind at ease. I like to ask a lot of questions as well and I would ask why these things are changing. Please let us know how you are doing. We are here for you. Scott skincancer.net moderator

      1. I say it’s never a waste of money to ease your mind. It’s clear from your post that you have followed it closely and are concerned. Fine distinctions are hard to see, and that is why we rely on dermatologists to help us. They go to medical school and many years of residency to make these calls. Good luck, and keep this community posted! 😊

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