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Play it safe with screening of moles at Algonquin dermatology practice

Moles treatment, Illinois Moles (technically called melanocytic nevi) are a very common skin growth affecting people of all skin types. Almost everyone has at least one mole on their body, and many people have 50 to 100 benign moles. It is important to have moles mapped and checked by a dermatologist at least once a year. Dr. Vikram Khanna urges patients with moles to schedule annual screening at Dermatology Specialists of Illinois, in Algonquin. He also helps patients understand how to check their moles at home, and determine which moles might be of concern.

Moles Video by Dr. Khanna
Hi, I am Dr. Vic Khanna with Dermatology Specialist of Illinois, and one of the most common complaints that we have in our office is about moles. People have questions about their moles and what is a mole? A mole is, in medical terms, is a melanocytic nevus. It's an overgrowth of pigment cells that grow in a collection on some portion of the body. People can be born with them or they can acquire them over time. Moles can become a concern for cosmetic reasons, but also because they could becoming abnormal. And what we like to see in a mole is symmetry, a uniform color throughout the mole, a small diameter and a smooth border. All of those things are very reassuring characteristics of a mole. But if the mole is becoming asymmetric, irregular in color, is growing in diameter, or is becoming irregular in its border, those all can be concerning science, or if the moles starts to hurt, itch, or bleed, those can be concerning characteristics of the mole. So it's important to get your moles checked, especially if you think that there's anything abnormal or changing about them. Moles can become a type of cancer called melanoma, and it's a very serious type of cancer. So if you have a concern about a mole, come in and get it checked. It's very important to do that.

What causes moles?

Moles are simply skin cells that form in a cluster, rather than being spread out evenly. Melanocytes, the type of cells that make up moles, create the pigment that gives color to skin.

They are usually brown or black, and may appear anywhere on the skin, singly or in clusters. Moles typically show up during the first 30 years of life, then change slowly. They may become raised, a different color, or sprout hair. Some disappear naturally, and others darken with sun exposure.

The importance of screening

While most moles are benign, there are cases in which they should be observed for possible cancer concerns. This kind of cancer is called malignant melanoma, and is very serious. The incidence of melanoma is quite high and increasing every year. If left untreated, it usually becomes fatal. Fortunately, early treatment of melanoma is often simple and results in a cure in most cases.

At an initial skin cancer screening, Dr. Khanna maps the location of moles as a baseline. He also makes note of any suspicious moles to watch closely for future changes.

If you notice changes to a current mole, or discover the appearance of new moles, call Dermatology Specialists of Illinois right away for an appointment in Algonquin. The number is (844) 307-7546

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Dermatologist Specialists of Illinois

Dr. Vikram "Vic" Khanna, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist with over 20 years of expertise in dermatology. Educated at Northwestern University and trained at Feinberg School of Medicine and Case Western Reserve University, where he served as Chief Resident, Dr. Khanna combines extensive knowledge with practical skills. He is also board-certified in Mohs micrographic surgery, specializing in skin cancer treatments. Dr. Khanna's authoritative role as a Clinical Instructor at Northwestern University and his dedication to ongoing education underscore his commitment to advancing dermatological care. Known for his compassionate approach, he is trusted by patients and peers alike.   Connect with Dr. Vikram Khanna on Linkedin

Dr. Lauren Boshnick is a skilled dermatologist specializing in skin cancer, acne, psoriasis, and cosmetic dermatology. With an honors degree in Biology from the University of Western Ontario and a medical degree from the American University of the Caribbean, where she graduated salutatorian, Dr. Boshnick has achieved exemplary United States Medical Examination scores and received advanced training at prestigious institutions like Mayo Clinic and Oxford. Her dermatology residency at Florida State University, where she was chief resident, further solidified her expertise. Active in the AAD and dedicated to advancing skin care, Dr. Boshnick brings her extensive experience and passion for dermatology to the Northwest Suburbs community.   Connect with Dr. Lauren Boshnick on Linkedin

Dr. David Othman is a board-certified dermatologist and micrographic dermatologic surgeon with over a decade of experience in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. He holds a B.S. in Microbiology and an M.H.S.A. from the University of Michigan, as well as an M.D. from Northeast Ohio Medical University, where he received the Award for Excellence in Dermatology. Dr. Othman completed his dermatology training at Indiana University, serving as Chief Resident. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology and a fellow of the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery. Known for his commitment to patient care and trust, Dr. Othman actively contributes to the field through teaching and research.