Flat Mole Characteristics and Management

Clinical Features and Risk Assessment

Flat moles are non-palpable and level with the surrounding skin, in contrast to raised or nodular moles, and may display uniform or variegated pigmentation, with multiple colors potentially indicating atypical features, according to the British Journal of Dermatology 1, 2
Lentigo maligna, a specific type of flat pigmented lesion, represents melanoma in situ, commonly found on sun-exposed areas of the face in older individuals, as reported by the British Journal of Dermatology 3
The British Journal of Dermatology recommends documenting duration, changes, symptoms, site, size, and description of flat moles, including irregular margins, irregular pigmentation, and flat appearance 1, 2

The British Journal of Dermatology and Praxis Medical Insights recommend that flat moles with suspicious features should be referred urgently to a dermatologist or surgeon with expertise in pigmented lesions, and excisional biopsy is preferred for suspicious flat moles 4
For elderly patients with lentigo maligna where complete excision is impossible or contraindicated, alternative options include radiotherapy, CO2 laser, and cryotherapy, as suggested by Praxis Medical Insights 4