What causes a black mole to enlarge and become raised, without pain or itching?
Aug 29, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, the enlargement and protrusion of a black mole may be caused by changes during puberty, sun exposure, medication effects, sebaceous gland hyperplasia, trauma, or other reasons. It is recommended to visit a hospital to determine the underlying cause and follow medical advice for treatment. During treatment, patients should keep the affected area clean and dry, and avoid scratching or squeezing to prevent irritation and promote proper healing.
Under normal circumstances, the enlargement and protrusion of a black mole may be caused by hormonal changes during puberty, sun exposure, medication effects, sebaceous gland hyperplasia, or trauma. It is recommended to visit a hospital to determine the underlying cause and follow medical advice for treatment. The detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Puberty-related changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels during puberty can affect melanin production and distribution, leading to darkening or enlargement of existing moles. This typically does not involve pain or itching, and growth is usually slow. No specific treatment is generally required; regular monitoring of changes is sufficient.
2. Sun exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can stimulate the activity of melanocytes, increasing melanin deposition and causing moles to darken or grow larger. It is advisable to take protective measures such as wearing sun hats and long-sleeved clothing to reduce direct UV exposure.
3. Medication effects: Certain medications, such as immunosuppressants or chemotherapy drugs, may affect melanocyte metabolism, resulting in mole enlargement or elevation. When using these medications, closely monitor any changes in moles. If enlargement occurs, seek medical attention promptly and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
4. Sebaceous gland hyperplasia: This condition involves the benign enlargement of normal sebaceous glands in the skin, which may increase sebum secretion on the surface of a mole, forming small granular bumps. It is often accompanied by oily skin and enlarged pores but usually does not cause pain or itching. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as tretinoin cream, salicylic acid ointment, or isotretinoin soft capsules for treatment.
5. Trauma: Injury can trigger local inflammatory responses in the skin, often accompanied by symptoms such as pain, swelling, and bruising. Inflammation may stimulate melanocytes to produce more melanin, leading to mole enlargement or elevation. Prompt medical treatment with medications such as ibuprofen tablets, povidone-iodine solution, or erythromycin ointment is recommended under doctor's guidance.
During treatment, patients should keep the affected area clean and dry, avoiding scratching or squeezing to prevent irritation and support proper healing.
