What should you know about labia majora melanoma?

Melanoma develops from pigment-producing cells. On the labia majora it may appear as a changing dark patch, unevenly coloured spot, new growth, persistent sore, or bleeding lesion, although appearance cannot confirm the diagnosis. A clinician examines the vulval skin and usually recommends a biopsy so a pathologist can identify the tumour and its features.

Staging considers the biopsy findings and whether nearby lymph nodes or other areas need assessment. A sentinel lymph node biopsy may be discussed in selected cases. The diagnosis is not established by a photograph or by a symptom alone, and a suspicious lesion should not be self-treated.

Arrange a prompt appointment with a dermatologist, gynaecologist, or specialist cancer team if a labial mole or patch is changing, itching persistently, crusting, bleeding, or not healing. Bring a list of medicines and note when the change began. Avoid picking, bleaching, or applying strong products to the lesion.

Treatment commonly centres on removing the melanoma with an appropriate margin; the exact operation depends on location, depth, and nearby structures. Further surgery, lymph-node assessment, immunotherapy, or other oncology care may be considered according to the pathology and stage. Follow-up checks help identify new or recurrent changes.

Contact a specialist promptly for a rapidly changing lesion, bleeding that does not stop with gentle pressure, a worsening open sore, new groin swelling, or severe pain. Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, faintness, fever, or rapidly worsening illness. New neurological symptoms in someone with a known melanoma require emergency assessment.

Ask what biopsy is planned, what the pathology report means, whether lymph-node staging is relevant, which operation is recommended, whether systemic treatment is needed, and how follow-up will be organised.