What should you know about kanker melanoma?

Melanoma may develop in an existing mole or appear as a new mark. Warning features include asymmetry, an irregular border, uneven colour, growth, or a change in symptoms such as itching or bleeding. A suspicious mark is not confirmed by appearance alone; examination and removal of tissue for laboratory analysis may be needed. Melanoma can spread beyond the original skin site, so the care team may assess nearby lymph nodes and other areas when clinically indicated.

Arrange a prompt skin examination for a changing or unusual mark, and avoid picking or attempting to remove it yourself. Photographing the area can help you describe change, but it does not replace examination. If melanoma is diagnosed, treatment may include [Surgical Excision](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/excisional-surgery/) or other [Skin Cancer Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/skin-cancer-surgery/). Depending on findings, clinicians may discuss [Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/sentinel-lymph-node-biopsy/), [Immunotherapy](/treatments/systemic-therapy/immunotherapy/) and structured follow-up.

Contact a dermatologist promptly for a mark that changes in size, shape or colour, develops a new lump, crust, bleeding or persistent itch, or looks unlike your other moles. Seek urgent medical help for uncontrolled bleeding, rapidly spreading redness with fever, or severe illness. A new neurological symptom in someone being treated for advanced melanoma requires urgent clinical advice.

Does this mark need biopsy or removal? What did the tissue examination show? Do I need lymph-node assessment, further imaging or systemic treatment, and how often should my skin be checked?