Moles

Moles are small, pigmented spots on the skin. They are composed of clusters of pigmented cells called melanocytes. Moles can vary in size, shape and color. They can be flesh-colored, yellow-brown, or black. They can be texturally flat or smooth, hairy or warty. Although moles are usually harmless, in some cases they can become cancerous, causing a potentially deadly tumor called malignant melanoma. Everyone should have regular skin exams to screen for atypical moles.