An ordinary mole is usually an evenly-colored brown, tan, or black spot in the skin . It can be either flat or raised, round or oval. They may be present at birth or appear during childhood or adulthood. Several moles may appear at the same time, especially in areas that have been exposed to the sun. Once a mole develops, it usually stays the same size, shape, and color for several years.
Most people have moles that are almost always harmless.
However, it is important to recognize changes in a mole that may suggest melanoma is developing. The following ABCD system can help tell a normal mole from one that could be melanoma.