What should you know about melanoma under eye?

A mark below the eye may be a mole, sun-related pigment, irritation, or another benign change, but melanoma is also possible. Watch for asymmetry, a jagged edge, several colours, enlargement, bleeding, crusting, or a new mark that differs from others. The thin skin in this area can become irritated easily, so redness alone does not establish a diagnosis.

A clinician can inspect the mark with magnification while protecting the eye. If the appearance warrants it, tissue may be sampled or removed for laboratory examination. The diagnosis, depth, and position guide the treatment plan.

Arrange a prompt appointment with a dermatologist, and mention any change in vision, eyelid movement, discharge, or swelling. Avoid picking the spot and do not use acids, bleaching products, or wart treatments near the eye. Bring a clear photograph from before the change if one is available.

If testing confirms melanoma, treatment may involve carefully planned skin cancer surgery. Some people also need sentinel lymph node biopsy, imaging, or systemic treatment, depending on the diagnosis and examination findings.

Seek prompt medical review for a mark that grows, changes colour or outline, bleeds, crusts, or remains irritated. Get urgent help if there is sudden vision change, severe eye pain, marked swelling, inability to open the eye, or rapidly spreading redness. These symptoms need timely assessment regardless of whether the pigment is cancerous.

Ask which specialist should examine the area, whether a biopsy can be performed safely near the eye, how the site will be protected during healing, and when the result will be available. If melanoma is found, ask about margins, lymph-node assessment, and treatment choices that protect nearby structures.