Question:
During my son's routine well-check-up 2 days ago our doctor noticed some moles on his back that have halos around them. The moles themselves have OK symmetry, but the doctor was concerned about the white area surrounding the moles. I am going to take my son to a dermatologist as soon as I can set up an appointment. However, I am rather worried and want to know if these might be indicative of cancer?
Answer:
A halo around a pigmented lesion is often seen (and missed) in
patients with an immune response (the pigment -- less halo) directed
against a melanoma. Your doctor is acting properly.
