Skin Cancer and Dysplastic Mole: the Connection Explained

As your local dermatologists here at Nashville Dermatology Physicians in Brentwood, Tennessee, Dr. Jeffrey Berti and Dr. Toula Berti have seen and dealt with a great number of skin concerns over the years. One topic that often comes up—and one they are passionate about helping our patients understand—is dysplastic nevi. You might hear them called  “atypical moles,” but whatever the name, these moles can play a big role in your skin health. Let’s break it down together because we believe knowledge is the first step to staying safe.

What Are Dysplastic Nevi?

Picture a mole on your skin. Now imagine it’s a bit different from the rest—maybe it’s larger, has uneven edges, or shows a mix of colors like tan, brown, or even a hint of red. That could be a dysplastic nevus. These typically aren’t your everyday moles; they’re a little quirky, and their unusual appearance can sometimes signal a higher risk. They’re usually not cancerous themselves, but they’re like a flag waving to say, “Hey, keep an eye on me!”

We’ve spent decades looking at skin, Dr. Jeffrey Berti  states with his surgical expertise and Dr. Toula Berti with her keen eye for detail, and we’ve learned that dysplastic nevi are more common than you might think. Some folks have just one or two, while others might have a many scattered across their back or arms. Either way, they’re worth paying attention to.

Why Do They Matter?

Here’s the heart of it: dysplastic nevi can increase your chances of developing melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer. Think of them as a clue,  a hint that your skin might be more prone to trouble down the road. It’s not a guarantee, mind you, but it’s a risk factor we can’t ignore. If you’ve got a family history of melanoma or a bunch of these atypical moles, that risk climbs a bit higher.

Research indicates that dysplastic nevi are not cancerous but can look similar and are biologically intermediate between common moles and melanoma, increasing the risk of developing this skin cancer. The more dysplastic nevi a person has, the greater the risk, with studies suggesting a 10 times higher lifetime risk for those with five or more compared to those without. The risk is even higher for those with a strong family history of melanoma.

Melanoma isn’t something to take lightly. It can spread and be a deadly cancer if it’s not caught early, but the good news? We can do something about it. That’s where screening comes in, our favorite tool for keeping you safe.

Current Statistics on Melanoma in the US:

Melanoma is the fifth most common cancer in the US, accounting for about 1% of skin cancers but causing a majority of skin cancer deaths. In 2025, estimates suggest about 104,960 new melanoma cases will be diagnosed, with approximately 8,430 deaths, split as 5,470 men and 2,960 women. The incidence has risen steadily, growing over 320% since 1975, with a 46% increase in new cases over the past 15 years (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8544364/).

How Screening Saves Lives

When you come see us at Nashville Dermatology Physicians, we don’t just glance at your skin and call it a day. We take our time, looking closely at every mole, especially those dysplastic ones. We’re checking for change, anything that looks odd, like growth, itching, or bleeding. Only by a small biopsy can we officially diagnose dysplasia.  The pathologist who is a doctor specially trained to diagnose biopsies, looks under the microscope and makes this diagnosis.

If it turns out to be trouble, catching it early can make all the difference. Melanoma found early is almost always treatable. That’s why we’re so big on regular checkups, t’s like giving your skin a fighting chance.

What Can You Do?

There is plenty you can do at home. Get to know your skin, stand in front of a mirror once a month and look for anything new or different. If a mole starts acting up, don’t wait; give us a call. And please, wear sunscreen! Those UV rays can nudge dysplastic nevi toward trouble, so slather on the mineral SPF if you are planning a day outside, grab a hat or wear sun protective clothing, and enjoy Tennessee’s sunshine safely.

Our Promise to You

Here in Brentwood, Nashville Dermatology Physicians is a place where you feel cared for, not just another number in a chart, but actually someone who is valued and listened to. With over 40 years of experience between the doctors here, they have seen how a little vigilance can change lives. Dysplastic nevi might sound weird and scary, but they don’t have to be. Dr. Berti states, "together, we can watch them, screen them, and help prevent or catch melanoma early!"

So, if it’s been a while since your last skin check, or if you’ve got a mole that’s been on your mind, schedule an appointment. Let's make sure your skin stays healthy, after all healthy skin is beautiful!  

Drs. Berti are here for you, schedule an appointment with an actual person who answers the phone in an office located in a private and professional dermatology office, located conveniently in Brentwood, TN.  Here you will notice above all you and your health is the priority. 

Nashville Dermatology Physicians

1001 Health Park Dr.

Suite 470

Brentwood, TN 

615.212.2517