What should you know about polypoid melanoma?

It may project outward from the skin rather than appearing as a flat patch. A clinician cannot confirm melanoma by appearance alone, so an examination and tissue testing are needed to identify what the lesion is and guide care.

Polypoid describes the shape of a growth: it is raised and may have a rounded, outward-growing or stalk-like appearance. Melanoma begins in pigment-producing skin cells, but a polypoid lesion may be dark, mixed in colour, or have little visible pigment. It can also become irritated, crusted, or bleed after rubbing.

This appearance can overlap with non-cancerous skin growths and other skin cancers. That overlap is why a new or changing raised lesion should be assessed rather than monitored at home for reassurance.

Arrange a prompt appointment with a dermatologist or skin cancer service. Bring a note of when you first noticed the lesion, any changes in size or colour, bleeding, itching, and medicines you take. A photograph taken earlier can sometimes help show change over time.

The clinician may examine the whole skin surface and arrange removal of the suspicious area for laboratory assessment. If melanoma is confirmed, the report helps the team discuss whether further surgery, lymph node assessment, scans, or drug treatment should be considered. The plan is tailored to the findings and your health.

Seek a prompt medical review for a new raised skin growth, or for a mole or bump that is enlarging, changing colour or shape, repeatedly crusting, or bleeding without a clear injury. Do not cut, tie off, burn, or use over-the-counter removal products on a suspicious lesion, as this can delay a clear diagnosis.

If bleeding will not stop with steady pressure, or a skin lesion is associated with severe symptoms that concern you, seek urgent medical help. Urgency is based on the symptom and its severity; only an assessment can determine the cause.

Ask what features need testing, whether the whole lesion can be removed at the first procedure, and when you can expect the laboratory result. If melanoma is diagnosed, ask what the pathology report means for the next stage of care and who will coordinate follow-up.

It can also help to ask how to check the rest of your skin, which changes should trigger an earlier review, and whether relatives should be aware of any relevant family history.