What should you know about melanoma dangerous?

Melanoma starts in pigment-producing cells and may develop in an existing mole or on previously unchanged skin. Its behaviour depends on factors such as depth, ulceration, lymph-node involvement and spread to distant organs. A dark or unusual mark is not automatically melanoma, and a melanoma diagnosis does not reveal its stage until the appropriate assessment is complete.

Warning changes include asymmetry, an irregular border, several colours, growth, itching, crusting or bleeding. These signs are reasons for examination rather than proof of cancer. Early review allows a clinician to decide whether a lesion should be removed and analysed.

Arrange a dermatology assessment for a changing or suspicious lesion. A clinician may use dermoscopy and recommend excisional surgery so the whole lesion can be examined. The pathology report can describe depth and other features that guide whether additional surgery, a sentinel lymph node biopsy, imaging or immunotherapy should be discussed.

Check your skin regularly in a consistent way, including the scalp, soles, nails and areas that are hard to see. Protect exposed skin from strong ultraviolet light and follow the personalised review schedule after treatment.

Seek prompt care for a lesion that changes quickly, bleeds without a clear injury, forms a persistent crust, or appears beside a previous melanoma scar. Urgent assessment is appropriate for new severe headache, confusion, weakness, seizures, breathing difficulty or sudden marked pain, especially in someone with known melanoma.

Ask what the pathology shows, whether the margins are clear, whether staging tests are needed, what treatment is recommended, and which symptoms should be reported between visits.