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Why do some individuals have more moles than others?

We are not all equal when it comes to moles. In some individuals, they seem to multiply while in others they remain very sporadic. How can we explain these differences? Discover in this article why some individuals have more moles than others.

Number of moles: how can we explain the differences between individuals?

The moles, or naevi, are small pigmented spots that appear on the skin. They result from a localised accumulation of melanocytes, the cells responsible for the production of melanin, the pigment that colours the skin. The moles can be present from birth - in which case we speak of congenital naevus - but, most often, they appear during childhood or adolescence. Most naevi are benign but they still need to be closely monitored to ensure they do not transform into melanoma. The number, shape, and colour of moles can vary among individuals.

The variability in the number of moles observed between different individuals can be explained by genetic and environmental factors.

Firstly, heredity plays a significant role in an individual's predisposition to the development of moles. Having a parent with numerous moles considerably increases the likelihood of having many nevi oneself. This genetic transmission is linked to several genes involved in the regulation of melanocyte proliferation and the skin's response to UV rays. Among them, the MC1R gene, coding for the type 1 melanocortin receptor, also responsible for hair colour and sun sensitivity, has been identified as a factor influencing the number and pigmentation of moles. This is also why individuals with light skin, eyes, or hair often have more moles than those with a darker phototype.

However, while genetics play a significant role in the occurrence of moles, it alone cannot explain why some individuals have more dark spots than others. Indeed, if we take the example of identical twins, we find that the number of moles between them is not necessarily uniform and can sometimes be very different. This is where lifestyle comes into play, and more specifically the habits of exposure to the sun's UV rays. These significantly influence the quantity of moles found on a person.

Indeed, under the effect of the sun, melanocytes are activated to protect the skin against UV-induced damage. However, if the sun has benefits, excessive exposure can disrupt the process of melanogenesis and lead to uncontrolled proliferation of melanocytes and their clustering into groups, giving rise to moles. This is why moles are mainly found on areas often exposed to the sun, such as the face, shoulders, arms or legs. It's also worth noting that UV rays can cause genetic mutations in skin cells, particularly in the BRAF gene, which is involved in the regulation of melanocyte growth. These alterations are not necessarily malignant, but they promote the appearance of moles and can, in some cases, increase the risk of transformation into melanoma.

Intense and repeated sun exposure, particularly during childhood and adolescence, is associated with a higher number of moles in adulthood.

Should one be concerned about having numerous moles?

Having a large number of moles is not necessarily concerning, but it does require regular monitoring. Generally, moles are benign and remain stable throughout life. However, studies show that individuals with more than 50 moles have a slightly increased risk of developing melanoma. In addition to a large number of moles, this risk is particularly pronounced when the moles are atypical, that is, when they are large in size (diameter greater than 6 mm), have uneven colour, or display an irregular shape or edges.

The main challenge lies in the identification of moles that are suspicious. Dermatologists recommend applying the ABCDE method to spot signs of a potential melanoma: Asymmetry, irregular Borders, non-uniform Colour, Diameter greater than 6 mm, and rapid Evolution in size, shape, or colour. Any sudden change in a mole, whether it's a change in pigmentation, a surface becoming rough, or spontaneous bleeding, should prompt a medical consultation.

Approximately 20%

Melanomas often develop from the degeneration of a mole.

Once a year

It is advised to have one's moles examined by a dermatologist.

Diagnostic

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