Fish melanoma: what to know

Melanoma can appear in an existing mole or as a new pigmented mark. Warning changes include growth, uneven shape, varied colour, an irregular edge, persistent itching or bleeding, or a lesion that looks different from others. These signs do not confirm cancer, but they justify examination; only a clinician and tissue assessment can establish the diagnosis.

If melanoma is confirmed, the team considers the lesion's depth and other findings to plan care. A sentinel lymph node biopsy may be discussed in selected cases, while imaging or specialist review is guided by the clinical picture.

Book a dermatology appointment for a changing or suspicious mark and avoid picking or attempting to remove it yourself. Photographing the area beside a simple size reference can help show change, but it does not replace examination. Confirmed melanoma is commonly managed with surgical removal; further surgery, immunotherapy, or surveillance depends on pathology and staging.

Seek prompt review for a lesion that changes, bleeds, crusts, becomes painful, or fails to heal. Contact the treating team quickly for new lumps, persistent headaches, weakness, seizures, confusion, or other neurological symptoms after a melanoma diagnosis. Sudden neurological symptoms require emergency care.

Ask whether the mark needs a biopsy, what the pathology shows, whether wider excision or lymph-node assessment is appropriate, and how often follow-up checks should occur. Ask which new skin or general symptoms should be reported between visits.