What should you know about melanoma recurrence?

A recurrence may appear near the original melanoma, in nearby lymph nodes, elsewhere in the skin, or in a distant organ. It can be found because of a new lump, a changing skin mark, persistent symptoms, or a planned examination or scan. A new skin change is not automatically recurrent melanoma; infection, scar tissue, cysts, and other conditions can look similar. Examination and tissue testing help clarify the cause.

Your risk and follow-up plan depend on details such as the original tumour, lymph-node findings, treatment, and overall health. Recurrence is different from a second, unrelated melanoma, so your clinician will assess the new finding in context.

Keep scheduled skin and lymph-node checks, and follow the surveillance plan given by your oncology or dermatology team. Check your skin in a consistent, well-lit way and ask someone to help with the scalp, back, and other hard-to-see areas. Record a mark that changes in size, shape, colour, bleeding, or sensation, and contact the team rather than waiting for the next appointment.

Assessment may include a skin examination, lymph-node examination, imaging, or a biopsy. Treatment depends on where melanoma is found and may involve surgical excision, tumour removal surgery, or systemic treatment such as immunotherapy. Follow-up after cancer treatment supports early discussion of new findings.

Arrange prompt medical review for a new or growing lump, a changing or bleeding mark near the treated area, a persistent enlarged lymph node, or a wound that does not settle. Seek urgent care for severe breathing difficulty, sudden weakness, confusion, a seizure, or a severe new headache. These symptoms can have causes other than melanoma, but they should not be assessed by waiting at home.

Ask where recurrence could appear in your case, which changes should trigger a call, how often examinations are planned, and whether you need imaging or biopsy. You can also ask how a result would change treatment and who to contact outside routine appointments.