What should you know about nodular melanoma dermoscopy?

A dermatoscope uses magnification and controlled lighting to show pigment patterns, blood vessels, surface changes, and colour variation. This can help a trained clinician compare a suspicious bump with nearby marks and decide whether it needs sampling or removal. Nodular melanoma may have an irregular structure or multiple colours, but no single dermoscopic appearance proves the diagnosis. Benign lesions can also look unusual, and a concerning lesion can lack obvious symptoms.

Do not delay review because a lesion looks small or because it does not hurt. Tell the clinician when it appeared, whether it has grown, and whether it has bled, crusted, or changed colour. If the examination is concerning, the next step may be mole removal or a biopsy so a laboratory can assess the cells. Keep the area intact and avoid trying to shave, burn, or freeze it at home.

Arrange prompt assessment for a new raised mark or one that changes in size, shape, colour, surface, or symptoms. Seek earlier review if it bleeds without clear injury, repeatedly crusts, or becomes an ulcer. Emergency care is needed for uncontrolled bleeding or severe illness; dermoscopy itself cannot determine urgency from an image alone.

Ask what features were seen through the scope, whether comparison photographs are useful, and why monitoring or tissue sampling is recommended. If removal is advised, ask how the specimen will be examined and when results will be explained.