Dermatologist» Skin Features

Dysplastic Nevi

MedicalCare.Org Health Editors — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 01:13:45 +0000

Background

Otherwise known as unusual moles that may resemble melanoma. People who have 10 or more of these moles have 12 times the risk of developing melanoma. Those who have dysplastic nevi plus a family history of skin cancer have an extremely high risk of melanoma.

The Classic Atypical Syndrome

People with a classic atypical mole syndrome have the following three characteristics:

100 or more moles
One or more moles 8 mm (1/3 inch) or larger in diameter
One or more moles which are atypical.

Characteristics

Atypical melanocytic nevus – asymmetric, border is irregular, color varies, diameter is greater than 6mm.

Multi-colored nevus – has a wreathed-shaped appearance, common patterns.

SHAPE: often asymmetrical: A line drawn through the middle would not create matching halves.

BORDER: irregular and/or hazy—the mole gradually fades into the surrounding skin.

COLOR: variation and irregularity with subtle, haphazard areas of tan, brown, dark brown, red, blue or black.

DIAMETER: generally larger than 6 mm (1/4 inch), the size of a pencil eraser, but may be smaller.

LOCATION: most commonly on the back, chest, abdomen and extremities; may also occur on normally unexposed areas such as the buttocks, groin or female breasts, as well as on the scalp.

GROWTH: Enlargement of a previously stable mole or appearance of a new mole after ages 35–40 should raise suspicion.

SURFACE: Central portion often is raised, whereas the peripheral portion is usually flat, sometimes with tiny “pebbly” elevations.

APPEARANCE: greatly varied; dysplastic nevi often look different from one another.

NUMBER: From a few to well over 100 dysplastic nevi may be present.

Here’s a quick visual guide from Cancer.Gov:

For more information, please visit and/or call your physician.

Here are some great resources to learn more about Dysplastic Nevi:

SkinCancer.Org

American Association of Dermatology

Cancer.Gov

Nevus.Org

What Skin Are You In? The 4 Common Types of Skin

N.Trinh — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 20:01:14 +0000

It is very important for you to know what kind of skin you have. Each skin type has unique characteristics and requires different kinds of care and treatment. Below are the 4 skin types:

Normal/Combination: This skin type has medium pores, a smooth and even texture, healthy color. It has a balanced oil and water content. It feels smooth and velvety. To care for this type of skin, you should generally use a cleanser, toner, and moisturizer regularly.

Oily: This type of skin has over-reactive oil-producing glands, which makes the face shiny, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). This skin type has large pores, which makes it easy to acquire pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Careful cleaning, minimal carbohydrate consumption, and avoiding rich creams can be helpful in improving oily skin quality.

Dry: This type of skin lacks oil and moisture. It looks textured, transparent and fragile. It chaps and flakes easily. It has a tendency towards wrinkles. To treat dry skin, the main aim is to create a balance between oil and moisture. Use a cream-based cleanser, keep a healthy diet of fruits and veggies, plenty of water and sleep, and lastly, exercise in fresh air.

Sensitive: This type of skin reacts externally and internally to anything in life. It can be both oily and dry; it can also be easily disturbed by cosmetic products. It tends to be blotchy and itchy at some times. It is frequently allergic and rashy. To treat sensitive skin, it is best to consult a dermatologist because this type of skin requires very special care.

These are the most common skin types. So, what type of skin are you? If you find that you do not belong to any of these types, do not fret! There are more than just 4 types of skin. Talk to your dermatologist today to find out what type you are. After all, it is true what they say—that we should all learn to love the skin we’re in.

Holy Moley: The Truth Behind Moles

N.Trinh — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 21:18:05 +0000

Moles are small, dark, skin growths that can develop on any part of the body, alone or in groups. It is normal about have between 10 to 40 moles by adulthood. Moles are caused when the cells in the skin grow in a cluster instead of being spread throughout the skin. These cells are called melanocytes, which makes the pigment that gives skin its natural color.

Moles are usually not dangerous, but there are different types of moles that you should be aware of, such as:

Congenital Mole: When you are born with a mole, it is called a congenital nevus. About 1 in 100 are born with these. The mole’s size can vary but moles of bigger size have a higher risk of developing cancer.

Atypical Mole: These are called dysplastic nevi and are usually larger than normal and have abnormal shape. They have uneven colors of tan, brown, red and pink. These moles are often hereditary, but can be developed in anyone.

Acquired Mole: These moles are acquired after birth and are generally not a cause for concern. If you have more than 50 acquired moles, however, it is generally advised to see a doctor to make sure none of them are dangerous.

Check Yourself: Skin Self-Exam

Stick to this motto when checking yourself for questionable moles: the ABCDE’s of Moles.

Asymmetry: is one half of the mole unlike the other half.
Border: is the border irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined.
Color: does it vary in color from tan, brown and black or white, red or blue.
Diameter: is it bigger than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser).
Evolving: is it changing in size, shape or color.

If a mole displays one or more of the ABCDE’s, make an appointment immediately to see a dermatologist. Routine exams ntialfor moles are really important because early detection and prevention are essential to treat skin cancer. Other preventive measures include wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, avoiding tanning beds, and get a healthy dose of Vitamin D.

Here is a useful body mole map from the American Association of Dermatology.