Melanocytic nevus causes

Editors-In-Chief: Martin I. Newman, M.D., FACS, Cleveland Clinic Florida, [mailto:Newmanm@ccf.org]; Michel C. Samson, M.D., FRCSC, FACS [mailto:samsonm1@ccf.org]

Sunlight
Some scientists suspect that overexposure to ultraviolet light, including excessive sunlight, may play a role in the formation of acquired moles. However, more research is needed in this area.

Genes
Genes can also have an influence on a person’s moles.

Dysplastic nevi or atypical mole syndrome is a hereditary condition which causes the person to have a large quantity of moles (often 100 or more) with some larger than normal or atypical. This often leads to a higher risk of melanoma, a serious skin cancer. A slight majority of melanomas do not form in an existing mole, but rather create a new growth on the skin. Nevertheless, those with more dysplastic nevi are at a higher risk of this type of melanoma occurrence. Such persons need to be checked regularly for any changes in their moles and to note any new ones.