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Mild Atypica Moles– Leave ‘Em Be or No?
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Mild Atypica Moles– Leave ‘Em Be or No?

› Forums › Cutaneous Melanoma Community › Mild Atypica Moles– Leave ‘Em Be or No?

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    • September 26, 2017 at 8:00 pm
    hellokitty1
    Participant

      To my count, I've had 4 biopsies done where the mole was graded atypical but the biopsy didn't remove it all, or at least the pathology didn't indicate either way. Everything that's at least mild-to-moderate or above has been fully removed in some fashion. One of my milds grew back quickly after its biopsy 6 months ago, one of them never grew back in the year since its biopsy, and the other two are brand new biopsies and too soon to tell if they will grow back.

      I didn't think anything of leaving the milds behind. My derm said it's standard practice and we can "watch them." For what, I don't know, because he's not at all concerened about the one that's shown regrowth. Then I saw a theory that a biopsy causes trauma to the mole and changes the nature of the cells which can turn them into cancer. I feel like I can't win! Leave the ugly moles unbiospied– worry that they are cancer. Biopsy them– turn them into cancer.

      Does anyone know if this is true? That trauma can advance a mole toward cancer? And would it even be possible to have the mole I biopsied a year ago fully removed now? I'm at high risk for melanoma, so trying to be cautious and do my best to live to see old age with my husband. Thank you for any help!

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        • August 1, 2018 at 8:49 pm
        wildpoppy
        Participant

          I'm wondering if you ever found an answer to this question? I am in a similar position!

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