Melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma: what to know

Melanoma often appears as a changing pigmented spot, although it can have little colour. Squamous cell carcinoma may look like a rough or scaly patch, a firm bump, or a sore that repeatedly crusts or fails to heal. Appearance alone cannot reliably distinguish either cancer from a benign lesion. A skin examination and biopsy allow a pathologist to identify the cell type and describe features that guide treatment. Having one skin cancer does not automatically mean a separate lesion is the other.

Book a dermatology assessment for a new, growing, bleeding, tender, scaly, or non-healing lesion. Note its location and changes, and avoid covering it with irritating products before review. Treatment depends on the diagnosis, size, depth, location, and nearby structures. Options may include Surgical Excision, Mohs Surgery, or other Skin Cancer Surgery. Mohs can be considered for selected lesions where preserving surrounding healthy tissue matters. Your clinician will explain whether one procedure is enough and how the wound will be cared for.

Arrange prompt review when a spot changes rapidly, bleeds with minimal contact, becomes painful, forms a persistent ulcer, or returns after previous treatment. Seek urgent help for uncontrolled bleeding, spreading redness with fever, severe swelling near the eye, or sudden neurological symptoms. These signs call for examination and do not identify the cancer type by themselves.

Ask what features make the lesion concerning, whether a biopsy is needed, and which surgical approach fits its location. Discuss expected scarring, reconstruction, healing time, margin assessment, and how you will check the rest of your skin. Ask how recurrence would be recognised and when follow-up should occur.