what exactly are moles and how do people get them?

Answer 1

A mole or melanocytic naevus is a small, dark spot on the skin. It can be either subdermal (composed of melanin), or a pigmented growth on the skin, formed mostly of melanocytes. The high concentration of melanin is responsible for their dark color. They are a member of the family of skin lesions known as naevi.

Moles may either be present at birth or develop later in life. Acquired moles are a form of benign neoplasm, while congenital moles are considered a minor malformation, or hamartoma. Moles are most often of no medical consequence, but since they are permanent, removal may be performed for cosmetic or other reasons. Moles are usually circular or oval and not very large. Most children are born with moles, and almost everyone has at least one or two moles on their bodies. Large amounts can be concentrated on the back, chest, and arms.

Some scientists suspect that overexposure to ultraviolet light (including excessive sunlight) may play a role in the formation of acquired moles, but more research is needed in this area.

Dysplastic nevi or atypical mole syndrome is a hereditary condition which causes the person to have a large quantity of moles (often 100 or more) with some of them larger than normal and/or atypical. This leads to a higher risk of melanoma, a serious skin cancer. A slight majority of melanomas do not form in an existing mole, but rather create a new growth on the skin. Nevertheless, those with dysplastic nevi are at a higher risk of even this type of melanoma. Such persons need to be checked regularly for any changes in their moles (and to note any new ones).

New moles, or changes to existing moles, may indicate developing melanomas, a form of skin cancer. People are advised to contact their doctor if they notice moles that have changed in size, shape, or colour; if a mole develops an irregular border; or if a mole begins to crust over, bleed, itch, or becomes inflamed.

Famous people known for their moles include actor Richard Thomas of The Waltons, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Ewan McGregor, Cindy Crawford, Ralph Cirella, Steven Berkoff, Lemmy and Robert De Niro.

Answer 2

I don't know...all I know is i had a cat one year and NEVER EVER had Mole problems.....but this year..already! They are back and I have NO cat!
My yard is a TOTAL MESS..and NOT even safe too walk...
I was told too buy Moth Balls....
YES! they do work, but as many as I had it's becoming too be VERY EXPENSIVE! and YES I get at the local dollar store...
add NOTICE! when it rain's you must do again! Just take with hands and throw over your yard...
CAREFUL of KIDS and PETS!!
They look like mice....GROSS LOOKING!
Don't know why some people in the neighbor hood get and others they don't seem too bother?
Must be something in the ground?

Answer 3

You can be born with them or get them from sunning,without sunscreen.30 coverage if you are susceptible to sensitive skin problems.The mole can be melanoma,if it changes you need to go to doctor and have them take a look at it.It's a difference in your skin pigments.I have red moles on my
upper body.Very strange those I inherited from my Dad.So, they can be passed down by a parent.Yea!!!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mole_(skin_marking)

Answer 4

Moles are clusters of pigmented cells that often appear as small, dark brown spots. They are just birthmarks and your born with most of them. They sometimes have to do with genetics.

Answer 5

Moles are just like little birthmarks, people are just born with them! but make sure to protect one if u get them or they can devolup cancer.

Answer 6

they are birth marks similar to someones in your family and you cant get them any more cause you are not developing and growing in your moms stomach no more.

Answer 7

Well, they are these little creatures that don't see very well.....LOL just kidding...........I don't know why we get them. Genetics maybe?

Answer 8

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mole_(skin_marking)