Mucosal melanoma of the mouth: what to know

This melanoma begins in melanocytes, the cells that make pigment, within the moist lining of the mouth. It can appear as a dark or uneven patch, a raised area, a sore, bleeding tissue, or a lump; some lesions have little visible pigment. A change may occur on the palate, gums, inner cheek, tongue, or another oral surface. These features do not prove cancer, because injury, infection, pigmentation, and other growths can look similar.

A clinician may inspect the mouth and neck, feel nearby lymph nodes, and arrange a biopsy. The pathology report helps identify melanoma and describes features that guide staging. Imaging may be used to look beyond the original site when clinically indicated. Read more about [Melanoma](/conditions/melanoma/).

Arrange an appointment with a dentist, oral and maxillofacial specialist, dermatologist, or head-and-neck cancer team for a persistent or changing oral lesion. Bring a list of medicines, previous biopsy reports, and a timeline of when the change began. Avoid repeatedly rubbing, picking, or applying unprescribed products to the area.

Treatment depends on the lesion's position, depth, spread, and the person's general health. Surgery may remove the primary growth, sometimes with assessment of nearby lymph nodes. Further treatment can involve an oncology plan such as immunotherapy. Options may include [Tumour Removal Surgery](/treatments/surgical-oncology/tumour-removal-surgery/) or [Immunotherapy](/treatments/systemic-therapy/immunotherapy/).

Seek prompt medical assessment for a mouth patch, lump, ulcer, or bleeding area that persists, enlarges, changes colour, becomes painful, or interferes with chewing or swallowing. Arrange urgent help for heavy bleeding, rapidly increasing swelling, trouble breathing, or inability to swallow fluids. A concerning mouth change is not the same as a diagnosis, but delay can make proper examination harder.

Ask where the lesion is located, whether a biopsy is needed, what the pathology wording means, and which scans or lymph-node assessments are appropriate. Ask how the proposed treatment may affect speech, chewing, taste, appearance, and recovery. Clarify who will coordinate dental, surgical, oncology, and rehabilitation care, and how follow-up visits will monitor the mouth and neck.