Concerns about a mole

Hey, I'm Florence, 28 years old. 

I have had a life-long mole on my neck, I recently got it checked because it changed in size, appearance and colour and it has been flaky. I was referred by 2 GPs to get an examination at the local hospital, the results (by AI) said the mole is benign melanocytic nevus. 

There isn't a day that goes by when it doesn't pinch, itch or hurt in someway. It has been hurting for the past year. I only clean the area with water, so I don't irritate the mole with chemicals. With it being on my neck, it is vulnerable especially to the sun (I make sure to put suncream on) and at work I have to wear a clip-on tie, so I really have to be careful not to scratch it. I'm pale skinned, I burn easily and various cancers run in my family so I am conscious. 

I don't want to wait for the mole to become cancerous or infected for the GP to get rid of it. 

Any advice? Thank you. 

  • Hi Florence and a warm welcome to Cancer Chat, 

    You did well to get that mole on your neck checked when you noticed it was flaky and that there was a change in its size, appearance and colour. It's important to get moles examined closely when there has been any changes that concern you. It's good that you were referred to the hospital and it is very reassuring that the results came back as benign melanocytic nevus. I can imagine this doesn't remove the stress and anxiety it is causing especially if it is pinching, hurting and itching every day and you're having to be super careful not to scratch it. 

    I completely understand your concerns and why this mole is becoming a nuisance to you and that you would not want it to get infected. I think it might be worth seeking a second opinion and trying to see another GP or specialist and voicing your concerns, fears and worries and asking what your options are. 

    I hope that you will also hear from the experiences of others here on the forum who have been in your place before and that they will be along shortly to share their thoughts and insights with you. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator