Melanoma: an English patient guide

Melanoma develops from pigment-producing cells and can occur on skin that receives sun exposure or on less visible areas. It may show asymmetry, an irregular edge, uneven colour, growth or a marked difference from nearby moles. These clues guide assessment; they do not identify the diagnosis by themselves.

A dermatologist may use dermoscopy and remove all or part of a suspicious lesion for pathology. The report describes features such as depth and ulceration. Those findings, along with lymph-node or scan results when needed, guide the care plan.

Make an appointment for a mark that is changing, bleeding, crusting, persistently itchy or unlike the others. Record when you first noticed it and bring photographs that show its evolution. Avoid picking or treating it with over-the-counter products before assessment.

If melanoma is confirmed, options may include surgical excision, wider skin-cancer surgery, lymph-node assessment or medicines for disease that needs treatment beyond surgery. Your team will match the plan to the pathology and stage.

Request prompt review for a suspicious skin change. Seek urgent care for uncontrolled bleeding, rapidly increasing swelling, severe pain, sudden confusion, weakness, vision change or a seizure. A clinician can separate melanoma-related concerns from other causes and decide how quickly testing is needed.

Ask what the biopsy shows, whether the melanoma has been fully removed, whether more staging is needed, and what treatment choices are available. Ask who to contact about wound problems, new skin changes and follow-up appointments.