When a Mole Needs Evaluation

Find out the warning signs that it’s time to have your mole examined by a professional.


Skin cancer doesn’t pick and choose whom it affects. While some people may have risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing skin cancer over their lifetime, it can happen to anyone. Whether you were someone who experienced a few sunburns during their lifetime, or you simply loved lounging in the sun in your early 20s, it’s important that you visit our Knoxville, TN, dermatologists Drs. Robert and Robert Griffith for annual skin cancer screenings.


What are the warning signs of a cancerous mole?

Moles should stay relatively the same over the years, so if you notice any changes or you notice a new growth or lesion show up, it’s worth it to schedule an appointment with our Knoxville, TN, dermatologist to find out if the growth or mole could be cancerous. Along with these annual skin cancer screenings, you should also be examining your skin from head to toe every month.


Melanoma, a potentially life-threatening form of skin cancer, may,

  • Look asymmetrical in shape and size
  • Have a blurry or poorly defined border
  • Develop multiple colors
  • Be larger than a pencil eraser
  • The crust, ooze or bleed

Of course, it isn’t just melanoma that you need be on the lookout for. You also need to spot those non-melanoma growths, too. The two most common types of non-melanoma skin cancers are basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas.

Basal cell carcinomas vary in appearance. They may look like,

  • A black or blue raised bump
  • A pink, white or skin-colored growth (you may notice blood vessels inside the growth)
  • A scar-like spot
  • A spot that may be fragile and bleeds easily

A squamous cell carcinoma may,

  • Be scaly or crust over
  • Look like a flat brown or red patch
  • Develop in scars or sores in the skin

Both forms of skin cancer are more likely to form on sun-exposed areas of the face and body.

If you are concerned about changes to your skin or the development of new growths, then turn to our Knoxville, TN, dermatologists at Griffith Dermatology by calling (865) 588-1361. We would be happy to schedule an evaluation with our team.

Contact Us

We encourage you to contact us whenever you have an interest or concerns.

Knoxville, TN Dermatologist Robert C. Griffith, MD 6311 Kingston Pike Suite 22E Knoxville, TN 37919 (865) 588-1361 | Call For Financing Options

Our Location

Find us on the map

Hours of Operation

Primary Location

Monday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed