Final answer:
A mole, also known as a nevus, is a growth on the skin from melanocytes. It can be benign or progress to melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer. Early detection using the ABCDs of Skin Cancer is key in treatment and prognosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Commonly known as a mole, a nevus is a small, dark, skin growth that develops from melanocytes in the skin. Moles can range from benign accumulations of melanocytes to more serious forms such as melanomas. Melanoma is a type of cancer characterized by the uncontrolled growth of melanocytes and often develops from an existing mole. It is considered the most fatal of all skin cancers due to its highly metastatic nature and difficulty to detect before it has spread to other organs.
Melanomas typically appear as asymmetrical brown and black patches with uneven borders and a raised surface. Because of the potential severity of melanoma, it is important to pay attention to the appearance of moles and other skin growths. The ABCDs of Skin Cancer are a mnemonic to help remember the signs of possible skin cancer: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, and Diameter. Early detection and treatment, such as surgical excision and immunotherapy, are crucial for the best outcomes.