Melanoma in the mouth: symptoms to know

Oral melanoma is an uncommon cancer involving pigment-producing cells in the lining of the mouth. A patch may be brown, black, grey, red, or uneven in colour; some lesions are not dark. It can occur on the roof of the mouth, gums, palate, tongue, or other oral lining. A swelling, ulcer that does not heal, unexplained bleeding, loosened tooth, numbness, or difficulty chewing can also warrant examination. These findings have many possible causes, so a symptom alone does not establish melanoma.

A dentist, oral medicine specialist, dermatologist, or doctor may inspect the mouth and neck, ask when the change began, and examine nearby lymph nodes. A biopsy is usually needed to identify the cells involved. Further assessment depends on the pathology and examination findings.

Arrange an appointment promptly if a mouth mark, sore, or lump persists, enlarges, changes colour, or returns after seeming to heal. Take a clear photo if the area is difficult to see and note bleeding, pain, numbness, or changes in eating. Do not scrape, burn, or self-treat the area. If melanoma is confirmed, care may include removal of the lesion, assessment of lymph nodes, and a discussion of whether additional treatment is appropriate. Read about Melanoma, Surgical Excision, and Skin Cancer Surgery to understand possible care pathways.

Seek urgent medical attention for heavy bleeding that does not settle, rapidly increasing swelling affecting breathing or swallowing, or severe difficulty opening the mouth. Contact a clinician soon for a persistent ulcer, unexplained bleeding, a new or changing pigmented patch, or a lump in the mouth or neck. Urgency is based on the warning sign and how it is changing, not on assuming that the symptom is cancer.

Ask: Where exactly is the change, and what other causes should be considered? Do I need a biopsy, and how will the sample be examined? If melanoma is found, what does its depth or spread assessment show? Would lymph-node evaluation, tumour removal surgery, immunotherapy, or follow-up after cancer treatment be relevant?