What should you know about genetic melanoma?

Most melanoma begins with changes in pigment-producing cells, but some families carry inherited changes that make melanoma more likely across generations. A strong pattern of melanoma in close relatives, several unusual moles, or melanoma at a younger age can prompt discussion of genetic counselling. A gene result does not replace examination, and a family history does not prove that every new mark is melanoma. A changing mole may become darker, develop several colours, grow unevenly, itch, bleed, or look different from the others. These are reasons for assessment rather than a diagnosis by appearance alone.

Arrange a full skin examination and tell the clinician about relatives with melanoma, pancreatic cancer, or multiple atypical moles. Ask whether genetic counselling or testing is appropriate for your family. Check your skin in a consistent way, including the scalp, soles, nails, and areas covered by hair, and have someone help with difficult-to-see sites. Use shade, protective clothing, and broad-spectrum sunscreen, and avoid deliberate tanning. If melanoma is confirmed, management may include surgical excision, staging tests, sentinel lymph node biopsy, or medicines such as immunotherapy, depending on the tumour and its stage.

Request a prompt dermatology appointment for a new or changing pigmented mark, a sore that does not heal, or a spot that repeatedly bleeds. Seek urgent medical help for severe illness with a known melanoma, such as new confusion, weakness, breathing difficulty, or rapidly worsening pain. Anyone with a strong family pattern should keep scheduled surveillance even when the skin looks unchanged.

Ask how often your skin should be examined, whether relatives should be assessed, what genetic counselling can clarify, and which warning changes should trigger an earlier visit. If melanoma is diagnosed, ask what staging information means and why a proposed treatment fits your case.