Could a Mole Be Melanoma?
Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer globally, and that means being familiar with your skin, particularly your moles is essential. While most moles are completely harmless, some can be an early indicator of melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer.
This detailed guide explains how to tell the difference between a normal mole and a potentially dangerous one, what symptoms to watch for, and when it’s time to speak to your GP.
At Buderim Medical Centre, we’re here to support the Sunshine Coast community with professional skin checks and personalised care. Early detection truly saves lives.
What Is a Mole?
A mole, also known as a naevus, is a small cluster of pigmented skin cells. These usually appear as brown, black, or flesh-coloured spots and are generally round or oval in shape. Most people have between 10 and 40 moles, which can develop during childhood and early adulthood.
There are two main types:
- Congenital moles – present at birth
- Acquired moles – develop over time, particularly during youth
While most are harmless, moles that change in shape, size, or colour should be reviewed by a doctor.
What Is Melanoma?
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops in melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment in the skin. Unlike other skin cancers, melanoma has a greater potential to spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.
Melanoma can arise from an existing mole or appear as a brand new spot on previously clear skin.
Can a Mole Become Melanoma?
Yes. Around 20 to 30 percent of melanomas begin in existing moles, while the rest typically appear as new lesions. This is why regular monitoring of your moles is important. Any mole that changes in appearance or behaviour should be checked by a healthcare professional.
How to Identify a Suspicious Mole – The ABCDE Rule
The ABCDE guide is a reliable method for assessing moles and identifying signs of melanoma:
- Asymmetry – One half of the mole does not match the other
- Border – Irregular, uneven, or poorly defined edges
- Colour – Variations in colour or multiple colours within the same mole
- Diameter – Larger than 6 millimetres, roughly the size of a pencil eraser
- Evolving – Any change in appearance or sensation, such as size, shape, colour, itching, or bleeding
Any mole showing one or more of these signs should be reviewed by your GP.
Other Warning Signs to Watch For
In addition to the ABCDE rule, be alert for:
- New moles appearing after the age of 30
- A mole that looks or feels different from others nearby (sometimes referred to as the “ugly duckling” sign)
- A mole that becomes itchy, painful, or sensitive
- Bleeding, oozing, or scabbing
- Rapid enlargement or elevation of a previously flat spot
Common Types of Melanoma
Understanding the different forms of melanoma may help you recognise unusual lesions earlier:
- Superficial spreading melanoma: Most common type; often flat with irregular borders
- Nodular melanoma: Usually raised and may appear as a firm bump that bleeds easily
- Lentigo maligna melanoma: Often found on sun-damaged skin in older adults
- Acral lentiginous melanoma: Appears on the palms, soles, or under the nails; more common in people with darker skin
What Increases Your Risk of Melanoma?
Several factors can raise your risk, including:
- Fair skin, light-coloured eyes, or red or blonde hair
- A history of sunburn or excessive sun exposure
- Family or personal history of skin cancer
- Having many moles or moles with irregular shapes
- Using solariums or tanning beds
- A weakened immune system
When to Seek Medical Advice
If you notice changes in any mole or spot, book a consultation with your GP or a skin cancer doctor. Annual skin checks are recommended for most adults, especially those at higher risk.
At Buderim Medical Centre, our experienced GPs perform detailed skin examinations and use specialised equipment such as dermatoscopes to detect abnormal lesions.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If you notice changes in any mole or spot, book a consultation with your GP or a skin cancer doctor. Annual skin checks are recommended for most adults, especially those at higher risk.
At Buderim Medical Centre, our experienced GPs perform detailed skin examinations and use specialised equipment such as dermatoscopes to detect abnormal lesions.
What if It Is Melanoma?
If a mole is diagnosed as melanoma, treatment usually involves:
- Surgical removal of the lesion along with a margin of surrounding skin
- Additional testing if the cancer appears advanced
- Ongoing skin checks to monitor for new melanomas
Melanoma has an excellent survival rate when detected early, which is why regular monitoring is crucial.
Can Melanomas Be Completely Colourless or Pink?
No. Not all skin cancers start as moles. While melanoma often begins in or near a mole, other types like basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) usually develop on normal skin, particularly sun-exposed areas.
Can a Completely New Spot on Clear‑Looking Skin Be Melanoma?
Yes, most melanomas (~70%) arise in previously normal skin, not from existing moles. So a new, unusual spot, even on clear skin, is worth checking if it shows ABCDE signs.
Do All Skin Cancers Begin as Moles?
No. Not all skin cancers start as moles. While melanoma often begins in or near a mole, other types like basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) usually develop on normal skin, particularly sun-exposed areas.
Get Regular Skin Checks for Early Detection of Skin Cancer
Not every mole is a cause for concern, but being proactive with skin health can make all the difference. If you spot a mole that looks unusual or has changed over time, don’t ignore it.
Book a skin check at Buderim Medical Centre. We offer comprehensive skin cancer services in a trusted, professional setting. Our GPs have extensive experience in skin health and use the latest diagnostic tools to detect suspicious lesions early.
Whether you’ve noticed a change in a mole or simply want reassurance, we are here to help. Regular checks and early detection are your best defence.
