What should you know about skin-colored melanoma?

A melanoma without obvious brown or black pigment may look like a new firm spot, a growing bump, or a patch with an uneven outline. It may itch, bleed, crust, become tender, or change in size, shape, surface, or colour. These signs do not confirm cancer; irritation and other harmless growths can look similar. A clinician may examine the whole skin surface with magnification and recommend removal of a suspicious area for laboratory assessment. Read more about [Melanoma](/conditions/melanoma/).

Arrange a dermatology appointment for a new or changing skin-coloured spot, especially when it is unlike your other marks. Photograph it beside a ruler, note when you first noticed it, and avoid picking or trying to remove it yourself. Take a list of medicines and any personal or family history of skin cancer. If assessment is needed, [Surgical Excision](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/excisional-surgery/) may remove the area so it can be checked.

Seek prompt medical review for rapid growth, repeated bleeding, an open sore, marked colour variation, or a spot that becomes painful. Seek urgent help if bleeding will not stop after steady pressure, or if a wound becomes increasingly red, swollen, hot, or draining. Confirmed melanoma may require further planning, such as [Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/sentinel-lymph-node-biopsy/) or [Immunotherapy](/treatments/systemic-therapy/immunotherapy/), depending on its findings.

Ask: Does this spot need a biopsy or removal? What changes should I record? How soon will results be available? Do I need a full-body skin examination or a follow-up plan?