abnormal biopsy for a mole

[sherrinevins]

I recently had a biopsy on a mole.   The results were that there we no cancerous cells but the cells were abnormal.  They want to cut the mole out.  Is this neccassary since there were no cancerous cell?  Can I just have this mole check once a year? Should I let them cut it out?

[sherrinevins]

Thank you for your advise!  I decided to have the mole removed.  I have a new question that I feel confident you can answer.  I have extremely oily skin.  I have tried Retina A, and a sulfur wash.  Neither one helped with the oil, they only made my pores appear smaller.  My dermatologist suggested I take Isotretinoin.  She said it will shrink my oil glands in my skin.  I looked online and haven't seen any result to use this for treatment of oily skin.  I am aware of the side affects and pregnancy risks.  If this will help me with my oily skin then I am willing to take it.  Any advise?  Thank you

[Dr_Smita_S]

Hi
The presence of abnormal cells (dysplasia) in a mole on biopsy indicates that there is a high risk (more than double) for development of a melanoma. The entire mole and a margin of normal tissue around it need to be removed. Usually once a mole has been removed, chances of recurrence are minimal.
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer which can spread to several parts of the body and leads to the greatest number of deaths. Melanoma occurs due to changes in the melanin-producing cells (melanocytes) of your skin. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a leading factor in the development of melanoma. UVB light causes harmful changes in skin cell DNA, including the activation of oncogenes and UVA light may be more likely to damage melanocytes, leading to melanoma.
Visiting your doctor for a regular follow-up examination and biopsy may be an option, but I feel you should be more wary and get the mole removed when your doctor is so advising considering your biopsy results.
Take care