Melanoma and lymph nodes: what to know

Lymph nodes are small immune-system structures that filter fluid from nearby tissues. Melanoma cells from a skin lesion may travel through lymphatic channels to regional nodes, commonly in the area that drains the original site. A node can also enlarge because of infection, inflammation, or another benign process. Its size or tenderness cannot determine the cause. Examination, ultrasound, needle sampling, or a Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy may be considered according to the melanoma’s features and the clinical findings.

Tell your clinician where you feel a lump, when it appeared, whether it is growing, and whether you have fever, recent infection, or skin changes. Do not repeatedly squeeze or massage the area. Your team may recommend removing the original lesion through Surgical Excision and may discuss further Skin Cancer Surgery or Immunotherapy if staging shows a need. Ask how pathology results will be shared and what surveillance will involve.

Arrange prompt medical review for a firm or enlarging lump that persists, a node above or below the collarbone, unexplained night sweats or fever, or a melanoma site that changes, bleeds, or fails to heal. Seek urgent help for rapidly worsening swelling with breathing or swallowing difficulty. These findings are reasons for assessment, not proof of cancer.

Ask which lymph-node region drains your melanoma, whether imaging or a Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy is appropriate, and what a positive or negative result would change. Clarify whether more surgery, systemic treatment, or observation is advised, how the arm or leg will be monitored after a node procedure, and when your next review is due.