Subcutaneous Melanoma: What to Know

Melanoma begins in pigment-producing cells and can involve nearby skin, lymphatic tissue or deeper soft tissue. A lump may be firm, dark, skin-coloured, tender or painless; its appearance cannot confirm the cause. The broader condition is described on the Melanoma page.

A clinician may examine the whole skin surface and nearby lymph nodes. A biopsy helps identify melanoma cells and provides information used for staging. Further scans or specialist tests depend on the examination and biopsy findings.

Do not pick, inject or attempt to remove a suspicious lump yourself. Arrange prompt review with a dermatologist or cancer team and bring details of when it appeared, how it changed, and any previous melanoma diagnosis. Keep records of medicines and earlier procedures.

Management may include Surgical Excision, Skin Cancer Surgery or Tumour Removal Surgery. A Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy may be discussed for selected melanomas. Advanced disease may lead to a conversation about Immunotherapy and a tailored surveillance plan.

Seek prompt medical assessment for a growing lump, bleeding, crusting, ulceration, persistent pain, or a new lump after melanoma treatment. Seek urgent help for severe headache, seizure, new weakness, confusion, vision change or difficulty speaking; these symptoms can require immediate evaluation, including assessment for Brain Metastases when clinically indicated.

Ask whether the lump needs biopsy, what the pathology shows, whether imaging or a Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy is appropriate, which treatment options fit the stage, and how follow-up will be organised.