What to know about DecisionDx-Melanoma

DecisionDx-Melanoma analyses gene-expression patterns in melanoma tissue. The result may be discussed alongside the pathology report, tumour features, examination and other staging information. It is not a diagnosis by itself, does not determine whether a suspicious mole is melanoma, and cannot predict every individual outcome.

A melanoma diagnosis and treatment plan may involve [Melanoma](/conditions/melanoma/), surgical removal and, for selected cases, a [Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/sentinel-lymph-node-biopsy/). Ask which parts of your report are established findings and which are risk estimates.

Ask your treating specialist why the test is being considered, what tissue is available, when the result is expected and how it could change surveillance or treatment discussions. Continue the care already recommended while waiting. Depending on the melanoma’s features, management may include [Surgical Excision](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/excisional-surgery/), [Skin Cancer Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/skin-cancer-surgery/) or other specialist treatments such as [Immunotherapy](/treatments/systemic-therapy/immunotherapy/).

Do not interpret a result without the pathology and clinical context. If melanoma has spread, the care team will explain the relevant site-specific evaluation and options.

Contact your cancer or dermatology team promptly if you have a new changing lesion, bleeding or non-healing area, unexplained swollen nodes, or new symptoms after treatment. Seek urgent help for severe breathlessness, confusion, weakness, seizure or a sudden severe headache. These symptoms need clinical assessment regardless of a DecisionDx-Melanoma result.

Ask what question the test is intended to answer, how it fits with your pathology and stage, whether it changes the recommended plan, what uncertainty remains, and how follow-up will be organised. If treatment has finished, ask about [Follow-Up After Cancer Treatment](/treatments/survivorship-and-rehabilitation/post-treatment-surveillance/).