Can a mole that doesn't change be melanoma?

The short answer is no, or at least not at all likely. Basic research would point to the ABCDE's to show you what to look for. The “E” is for evolving. So a mole that is not changing should not be considered a risk. read more

But it’s important to recognize changes in a mole – such as in its size, shape, or color – that can suggest a melanoma may be developing. Possible signs and symptoms of melanoma. The most important warning sign of melanoma is a new spot on the skin or a spot that is changing in size, shape, or color. read more

The only way to be 100% sure a mole is a melanoma is by biopsy and histological confirmation. That being said, most good dermatologist can be above 90% just by looking. Often the first sign of melanoma is a change in the shape, color, size, or feel of an existing mole. However, melanoma may also appear as a new mole. read more

Most melanocytes are in the skin, and melanoma can occur on any skin surface. It can develop from a common mole or dysplastic nevus, and it can also develop in an area of apparently normal skin. In addition, melanoma can also develop in the eye, the digestive tract, and other areas of the body. read more

Nodular amelanotic moles look like warty knots in skin color, without the usual melanoma criteria. A pathologist is the only doctor that can reliably diagnose it based on the review of cells in the sample of the removed mole. read more