Childhood moles and melanoma may be present or may develop during childhood or young adulthood. Moles tend to increase in number during the first two decades of life, and sun exposure can stimulate the body to make more moles. Melanoma is more common in adults but occasionally develops in teenagers.
Moles (Nevi)
Moles are common, raised or flat skin lesions that contain an increased number of melanocytes, pigment cells that produce color pigment. Moles are most often tan or brown, but they can also be skin-colored, pink, or even blue.
Moles may be present at birth (congenital melanocytic nevi; see below) or may develop during childhood or young adulthood. Moles tend to increase in number during the first two decades of life, and sun exposure can stimulate the body to make more moles.
Congenital melanocytic nevi
These are benign moles that are present at birth or within the first few weeks of life. They have an increased risk of transformation to melanoma. The risk correlates with their size; therefore, they are categorized based on their projected adulthood size. Management of these lesions requires consideration of melanoma risk, the patient’s age, aesthetics, treatment risks, and psychosocial aspects. Most small and medium-sized lesions are managed with baseline photography and regular follow-ups. If treatment is needed, excision/removal is recommended as the first choice.
Melanoma
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can be deadly if it spreads throughout the body. Therefore, early detection and removal of a melanoma is very important. Melanoma is more common in adults but occasionally develops in teenagers, especially those with risk factors. Risk factors for melanoma in teenagers include 1) having many moles (>50-100) and 2) a family history of melanoma.
Children’s Dermatology is led by board-certified dermatologist and a fellowship-trained pediatric dermatologist, Dr. Heidi Goodarzi, serving patients in Newport Beach, Irvine, Laguna Niguel, and Orange County, CA.
If you have any concerns about your child’s moles, make an appointment with Dr. Heidi for a full skin exam.
