Moles, Skin Growths, and Cysts
Moles
Moles are common skin growths also called nevi. Most people have a few moles and some have many moles. Melanoma is a skin cancer that can develop within a mole or can resemble a mole. Newly appearing moles or rapid changes in an existing mole’s color, shape, or size can be cause for concern. If you notice any spots that are different from the others, or anything changing, itching, or bleeding, you should promptly schedule a spot check and have it evaluated by our board-certified dermatologists.
Skin growths
Drs Brown, Cleary, and Hennings are happy to examine all lesions. There are many different growths that can occur on the skin. Some are concerning, and some are completely benign. Sometimes, we will use a specific technique called Dermoscopy to evaluate the lesion even more carefully. This tool allows us to look at the skin very closely to determine if a biopsy or removal needs to be done. Some growths are benign but are bothersome, growing, or symptomatic. Many of these can be easily removed. Sometimes it is considered cosmetic by your insurance company, and we can discuss pricing and what to expect in terms of healing. If you have concerns about a growth, please call us today to make an appointment.
Cysts
A cyst is a sac-like pocket of tissue that contains fluid or other substances and is located under the surface of the skin. Many times, cysts are benign (non-cancerous) and painless. Patients with a cyst, or something resembling a cyst, should schedule an appointment for review. Medical treatment should be promptly sought for a cyst that grows rapidly or becomes painful, infected, or irritated.