What should you know about lentiginous melanoma?

Lentiginous describes a pattern of atypical pigment cells spreading along the junction between the outer and deeper layers of skin. The word does not by itself describe the depth, stage or outlook of the melanoma. A biopsy examines the tissue and helps the pathology team report features that guide care.

The visible area may be a flat or slightly changing patch, but appearance alone cannot confirm the diagnosis. A melanoma assessment can include an examination of the whole skin and nearby lymph nodes, followed by a plan based on the biopsy findings.

Arrange a dermatology review for a new, enlarging or irregular pigmented area, especially when its border, colour or surface changes. Do not scratch, burn or repeatedly treat it as a cosmetic spot before it has been assessed.

If melanoma is confirmed, treatment commonly begins with surgical excision of the involved skin. The clinician may discuss wider skin-cancer surgery, a sentinel lymph node biopsy or other treatment when the pathology shows a deeper or more extensive disease. Keep the biopsy report and ask which margins and follow-up schedule apply to you.

Book a prompt dermatology appointment for pigment that is changing, bleeding, crusting, becoming tender or developing a new lump. Seek urgent medical help for heavy bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure, rapidly worsening pain, or signs of infection such as spreading redness and fever.

Ask what the biopsy shows, whether the melanoma is invasive, whether further excision is needed, and how the scar should be cared for. You can also ask whether lymph-node assessment, imaging, immunotherapy or structured follow-up is relevant to your findings.