What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• B-K Mole Syndrome
• Dysplastic Nevus Syndrome (DNS)
• Familial Atypical Multiple-Mole Melanoma (FAMMM) Syndrome

What is Atypical Mole Syndrome? (Definition/Background Information)

• Atypical Mole Syndrome is a disorder marked by a large number of atypical moles on the skin. The condition is usually manifested in adults rather than in children. The condition is also known as Dysplastic Nevus Syndrome (DNS)
• The condition is often hereditary, and so, those with a family member with Atypical Mole Syndrome have a greater risk for the condition
• Atypical moles are caused by an unregulated growth of skin cells. They are benign, but may appear like melanoma (which is a malignant skin condition)
• Some moles may be large in size and numerous moles are often seen on the body. Typically, a physical exam can be performed by a healthcare provider to diagnose the condition
• The treatment of Atypical Mole Syndrome is undertaken by minimizing exposure to direct sunlight to prevent complications, such as the formation of malignant melanomas
• It is important that individuals with Atypical Mole Syndrome perform regular skin self-examinations, because early detection is critical for early treatment of melanomas

Who gets Atypical Mole Syndrome? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Atypical Mole Syndrome is usually not expressed until adulthood. However, children may also be affected
• No gender preference is seen and both males and females are affected
• Atypical Mole Syndrome can occur worldwide; the condition affects all racial and ethnic groups, though individuals of north European ancestry are at a higher risk

What are the Risk Factors for Atypical Mole Syndrome? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Atypical Mole Syndrome may include:

• Having a parent or close blood relative with the condition is a key risk factor
• Exposure to direct sunlight for prolonged periods and/or not wearing sunscreen
• Previous history of melanoma
• Individuals who have fair skin complexion
• The presence of nevus (a non-cancerous pigmented mole)
• The presence of an underlying genetic condition called xeroderma pigmentosum
• Weak immune system

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one's chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Atypical Mole Syndrome? (Etiology)

• Atypical Mole Syndrome is caused by the uncontrolled growth of skin cells
• The syndrome may be due to inherited or sporadic gene mutations
• In familial or inherited cases, it appears to be an autosomal dominant trait, meaning that only one parent needs to have the trait in order for the child to inherit the condition

Autosomal dominant: Autosomal dominant conditions are traits or disorders that are present when only one copy of the mutation is inherited on a non-sex chromosome. In these types of conditions, the individual has one normal copy and one mutant copy of the gene. The abnormal gene dominates, masking the effects of the correctly functioning gene. If an individual has an autosomal dominant condition, the chance of passing the abnormal gene on to their offspring is 50%. Children, who do not inherit the abnormal gene, will not develop the condition or pass it on to their offspring. 

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Atypical Mole Syndrome?

The signs and symptoms of Atypical Mole Syndrome may include:

• Greater than normally average number of moles
• Moles that are larger in size than normally seen (greater than 5 mm in diameter)
• Moles which vary in color and have irregular borders
• The moles look unusual or appear different (atypical) when compared to a regular mole

How is Atypical Mole Syndrome Diagnosed?

• Atypical Mole Syndrome is normally diagnosed through physical examination by a healthcare provider
• A medical history (including family history) assessment is normally undertaken
• The physical exam can be followed up by a biopsy of irregular moles to confirm the condition
• Usually diagnosis follows the identification of a larger number of irregular moles on areas of the skin that is frequently exposed to the sun

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible complications of Atypical Mole Syndrome?

Individuals with Atypical Mole Syndrome have an increased risk of developing malignant melanomas, which is the most significant complication arising from the condition.

• The melanomas usually arise in new moles rather than the ones that are already present
• Malignant melanomas can metastasize and spread throughout the body. In some cases, these can also result in death

In some individuals, Atypical Mole Syndrome can result in cosmetic issues leading to emotional stress and anxiety.

How is Atypical Mole Syndrome Treated?

Atypical Mole Syndrome is an incurable and irreversible condition. Typically, the treatment plan is to reduce risk for complications and promote early detection of melanoma.

The treatment for Atypical Mole Syndrome may include:

• Practices, such as reducing the time spent under direct sunlight and/or artificial UV light
• Using sunscreen regularly while going out in the sun
• Wearing protective clothing while in the sunlight
• Regular self-examinations to aid in early detection of melanoma
• Regular physical examinations by a healthcare provider as recommended (which may be every 3-12 months)

How can Atypical Mole Syndrome be Prevented?

Atypical Mole Syndrome may not be prevented; however, those at risk may wish to consider the following measures:

• Reduce the time spent under sunlight; avoid direct sunlight
• Wear more protective clothing while in the sun
• Wear sunscreen during outdoor activities
• Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps
• Perform self-examination of your skin, from head to toe, once a month
• Get a professional skin exam from a healthcare provider, at least once a year

What is the Prognosis of Atypical Mole Syndrome? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• Atypical Mole Syndrome cannot be cured. However, if a treatment plan to reduce risk for melanoma and promote early detection of the skin cancer is followed, the prognosis is generally good
• Early detection of melanomas is critical in providing suitable early treatment, thereby reducing mortality rates

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Atypical Mole Syndrome:

• A melanoma is a type of cancer that develops from cells, called melanocytes. Melanocytes are cells that produce melanin; the pigment that gives skin its color

The following link will help you understand melanoma, a type of skin cancer:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/melanoma-of-skin/