Early-stage nodular melanoma: what to know

Nodular melanoma often appears as a raised bump that changes or enlarges over a relatively short period. It may be black, brown, pink, red, or similar to surrounding skin, and it can bleed, crust, or feel firm. Its appearance may not follow the classic pattern of a flat, irregular mole.

Diagnosis requires examination and tissue analysis. The pathology report helps describe tumour depth and other features that guide margin planning and staging. A lesion’s speed of change is a reason for prompt review, not a way to predict the outcome by itself.

Arrange an urgent dermatology or skin-cancer appointment for a new growing bump or a lesion that bleeds without clear injury. Surgical Excision is commonly used to remove the primary melanoma, with the final margin based on pathology. A Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy may be discussed for suitable tumours. Follow-Up After Cancer Treatment supports ongoing checks of the scar, skin, and lymph-node areas; selected cases may be considered for Immunotherapy.

Do not wait for a routine skin check if a nodule is enlarging, bleeding, ulcerating, or changing colour. Contact the surgical team promptly for wound redness, increasing pain, swelling, pus, or fever. New persistent headaches, seizures, weakness, confusion, or vision changes require urgent medical assessment.

Ask what the biopsy shows, how deep the melanoma is, whether the margins are clear, and whether lymph-node staging is advised. Ask how quickly surgery should happen, what scar care involves, and which new symptoms should prompt an earlier appointment.