Question: I have been monitoring the healing of an excision from a cyst on my back. In doing so, I've noticed an irregular mole in the center of my mid-back. It is approximately the size of a pencil eraser in diameter, perhaps marginally larger. I am attaching (four) photos of the mole, which show the surface features, as well as the surrounding area.

Biographically, I'm 33, fair skinned, with a large number of moles over my body. I don't recall seeing this one before, but I don't often see my own back.

The mole in question is inconsistent in color, with a splotchy appearance within a generally circular area.

1) Obviously, my question is whether this is a typical presentation of melanoma. I have not been for a dermatological evaluation in several years, but intend to have this evaluated. In the mean time, I was hoping to get some information on whether this was a highly alarming lesion.

2) Is it possible for such irregular moles as this to appear in the absence of cancer? This is very concerning to me and notwithstanding my intention of complete clinical evaluation, it would be comforting to know that abnormal moles can appear that aren't associated with a cancerous process.

Thank you for your reply. As a follow up, I%E2%80%99m just hoping you can say a bit more about why this is less likely a melanoma%E2%80%94I was under the impression that blotchy and irregular shaped moles like this one suggested melanoma. Of course, I intend to have it evaluated with a dermatoscope as soon as possible, but it would put me a bit at ease until then to know a bit more about why I likely should not be so worried. Thanks again.