What are the treatment options for atypical mole?

An atypical mole, also called a dysplastic naevus, can have an uneven shape, varied colour, or an irregular border without being cancer. A clinician compares it with other moles, asks about change over time, and may use a dermatoscope. The decision to observe or remove it depends on its appearance, evolution, location, and examination findings.

If the mole is stable and the examination is reassuring, planned monitoring with photographs or scheduled skin checks may be appropriate. If it is changing, difficult to assess, repeatedly irritated, or concerning on examination, mole removal or surgical excision may be recommended so tissue can be examined. Excision removes the mole with a margin selected by the clinician and usually leaves a wound that needs routine care. Do not cut, burn, or shave an atypical mole at home, and protect the area from sun while it heals.

Arrange a skin review for a mole that changes in size, shape, colour, or surface, or one that starts bleeding, crusting, itching, or becoming painful. Seek prompt assessment for rapid change or a new irregular lesion. After removal, contact the treating service for worsening redness, swelling, discharge, fever, or bleeding that does not settle.

Ask why monitoring or removal is recommended, whether the whole mole will be examined, what scar care is needed, and when the result and next skin check will be available.