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A mole is a skin growth made up of cells (melanocytes or nevus cells) that produce colour (pigment). Moles can appear anywhere on the skin, alone or in groups.
Most moles appear during the first 20 years of a person's life. Some may not appear until later in life. Although most moles are harmless, some can become cancerous. Signs of skin cancer include a change in the skin, such as a growth, an irritation or sore that does not heal, or a change in a wart or mole.
Current as of: March 22, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Brian D. O'Brien MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & Amy McMichael MD - Dermatology
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