What should you know about HPV and melanoma?

Human papillomavirus can cause warts and other localised skin or mucosal growths. Melanoma is a cancer of pigment-producing cells and may begin in an existing mole or as a new mark. Their appearances can overlap with other skin lesions, and a photo or online description cannot confirm the diagnosis. HPV is not a substitute explanation for a mole that is changing in colour, shape, border or size.

Arrange a skin examination for a new or changing dark spot, a lesion with several colours, an irregular outline, persistent bleeding or a sore that does not heal. Do not shave, burn or apply wart treatment to a pigmented lesion before it has been assessed. A clinician may use dermoscopy and, when needed, remove the lesion for laboratory examination. If melanoma is confirmed, care may involve surgical excision and additional staging or treatment based on the findings.

Seek prompt medical review when a mole changes noticeably, develops a new firm area, bleeds without clear injury or becomes persistently itchy or painful. Urgent help is appropriate for heavy bleeding, rapidly increasing swelling, or severe symptoms affecting vision, breathing or neurological function. A diagnosis of melanoma also requires follow-up to check the skin and any recommended treatment response.

Ask whether the lesion resembles a wart, mole or another growth, whether dermoscopy or biopsy is needed, and how quickly results will be available. If melanoma is diagnosed, ask about margins, lymph-node assessment, staging, treatment choices and the schedule for follow-up.