November 7, 2018
Why You May Need to See a Doctor to Have Your Mole or Cyst Removed
Moles and cysts may seem relatively harmless but, as we all know, they can turn into a problem. Cysts are different from tumors but can still be problematic in some circumstances. Mayo Clinic describes exactly what cysts are, “A cyst is a sac that may be filled with air, fluid or other material. A cyst can form in any part of the body, including bones, organs and soft tissues. Most cysts are noncancerous (benign). Although cancers can form cysts. Some common examples of cysts include sebaceous (epidermoid) cysts — small bumps that form just beneath the skin — cysts that occur in the liver (hepatic), cysts that occur in the kidneys (renal), and breast and ovarian cysts. It’s important to note, however, that nearly all cancers are capable of producing cysts.” While the majority of cysts are benign, if you have cysts you should have them checked by a doctor.
Moles are different from cysts and tumors. They are not inherently dangerous but could change and become dangerous if they develop cancer. Cleveland Clinic describes exactly what moles are, “Moles are growths on the skin that are usually brown or black. Moles can appear anywhere on the skin, alone or in groups. Most moles appear in early childhood and during the first 20 years of a person’s life. Some moles might not appear until later in life. It is normal to have between 10 to 40 moles by adulthood. As the years pass, moles usually change slowly, becoming raised and lighter in color. Often, hairs develop on the mole. Some moles will not change at all, while others will slowly disappear over time…Most moles are benign. The only moles that are of medical concern are those that look different than other existing moles or those that first appear after age 20. If you notice changes in a mole’s color, height, size, or shape, you should have a dermatologist (skin doctor) evaluate it.”
It is ideal to have regular checkups with your physician or dermatologist to ensure that all of your moles and cysts are normal. If they are of concern, however, they may need to be removed, as Stanford Health Care notes, “Moles are shaved away or cut off, while cysts are drained, injected with steroids to reduce swelling or removed.” If you are concerned about the appearance of a mole or cyst, have it examined by your physician as soon as possible. Removal or treatment is typically an in-office procedure with little-to-no downtime.
