Fire In The Mole

Jan 13

A mole, whose medical name is a melanocytic nevus, is an common benign growth of the color cells of the skin called melanocytes. Moles normally appear in the first year of life and peak in number in the second or third decade, when the average number is 25. The total number of moles on the skin increases with significant sun exposure and in particular with sunburns before the age of 12. Some moles may disappear in the seventh to ninth decade.

Part of the Chinese Art of “Mian Xiang”:

Any mole with a reddish gleam is always a sign of good luck, no matter where it appears. Dark moles are more ominous, especially if they change shape or size.
Right on the hairline: Prosperity.

Between the eyebrows: Great wisdom.

On the tip of the nose: Your prosperity is constantly under threat.

On the inner ear: You have an above-average talent and will enjoy a long life.

Right cheek: Successful life.

Left cheek: You are studious and struggling.

On each cheek: You’ll enjoy success after much hard work.

If any mole at all ever changes shape or size, consult a doctor. It could be early sign of melanoma. Anyone who has more than 100 moles is at greater risk for melanoma. The first signs can appear in one or more atypical moles. That’s why it’s so important to get to know your skin very well and to recognize any changes in the moles on your body. Look for the ABCDE’s of melanoma, and if you see one or more, make an appointment with a physician immediately.

Asymmetry – One side of the mole does not match the other side of the mole and appears uneven. If you draw a line through this mole, the two halves will not match.

Border – The borders of an early melanoma tend to be uneven. The edges may be scalloped or notched.

Color – The color of the mole is uneven and varies in shade. Having a variety of colors is another warning signal. A number of different shades of brown, tan or black could appear. A melanoma may also become red, blue or some other color.

Diameter – A mole bigger than a pencil eraser. Melanomas usually are larger in diameter than the size of the eraser on your pencil (1/4 inch or 6 mm), but they may sometimes be smaller when first detected.

Evolving – Any change — in size, shape, color, elevation, or another trait, or any new symptom such as bleeding, itching or crusting — points to danger.