Melanoma early detection: signs and next steps

Melanoma can appear in an existing mole or as a new mark. Pay attention to asymmetry, an uneven border, several colours, growth, itching, bleeding or a spot that looks different from the rest of your moles. A symptom or visual change does not diagnose melanoma; many skin marks are harmless, but change merits assessment.

A clinician may inspect the whole skin surface and use a dermatoscope to see structures beneath the surface. If the lesion remains concerning, an excisional biopsy removes it for laboratory examination. The pathology report guides whether further surgery or staging is needed.

Choose a regular time to look at your skin in good light, including the scalp, soles, between the toes and areas covered by hair. Use a mirror or ask someone you trust to check hard-to-see places. Photograph a mark only to document change; do not use photographs as a substitute for examination.

Book a dermatology appointment when a lesion changes or stands out as unusual. Mention previous skin cancer, a close family history, immune suppression and past intense sun exposure, because these details help the clinician plan assessment and follow-up.

Seek prompt assessment for a new or changing pigmented lesion, especially one that bleeds, crusts, becomes persistently sore or develops an irregular outline. Arrange urgent help for uncontrolled bleeding, rapidly worsening pain, or new neurological symptoms. These signs are reasons to seek care, not proof of cancer.

Ask what feature makes the mark concerning, whether dermoscopy or biopsy is appropriate, when you should receive the pathology result, and how often your skin should be reviewed. Ask how to examine the scar and nearby lymph nodes after treatment.