Health Reminder: Changes in Appearance of a Mole

Typical, Harmless Mole?

(Image from Wikipedia)

Trevor, who blogs at Kalebeul and lives in Spain, has posted a fascinating investigation into the significance of moles in religion, literature, and culture that approaches the topic rather more broadly than my own (though he is kind enough to mention my posts).

Though his post does not focus on the issue of bodily health, we should also note that whatever the metaphorical significance of moles in religion, literature, or culture, we should never forget that they are also physical growths on our bodies and should be watched carefully for any physical changes that could signal a transformation from benign to malignant.

For instance, the above image from Wikipedia's entry on moles illustrates a typical mole reminiscent of the benign, life-giving nipple that offers us nothing less than the sweet milk of maternal kindness.

Be not fooled.

That 'harmless' mole can suddenly change into a large, dark, hair-covered, malignant one like the mole depicted below:

Atypical, Malignant Mole!

(Image from Wikipedia)

Obviously not benign, such a mole as this one can spread from your body to your garden and wreak havoc in your lawn, burrowing everywhere in its insatiable desire to fill its greedy maw! As Wikipedia informs us:

Moles burrow lawns, raising molehills, and killing the lawn, for which they are sometimes considered pests. They can undermine plant roots, indirectly causing damage or death.

Yes, even death! Moles can kill. Take them very seriously. If they are not stopped, they can even undermine an entire country by compromising its security.

Therefore, if you notice a radical change in a mole, seek medical attention immediately!