What should you know about superficial malignant melanoma?

This form may begin as a flat or slightly raised patch with uneven colour, an irregular outline, or a noticeable change from an existing mole. Shades can include brown, black, pink, red, blue, or white. The appearance alone cannot confirm the diagnosis; a clinician examines the area and a biopsy provides the tissue diagnosis.

The depth and other features found after biopsy help the team plan care. Melanoma is different from a harmless mole, but a suspicious-looking mark is not proof of cancer. A broader overview is available in Melanoma.

Arrange a dermatology assessment for a new or changing mark, especially one that is enlarging, developing several colours, bleeding, crusting, or becoming itchy. Do not pick or attempt to remove it at home. Photographing it beside a ruler can help show change while you arrange care, but it does not replace examination.

If melanoma is confirmed, treatment commonly starts with Surgical Excision. Depending on the biopsy findings, your team may discuss Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy, additional skin cancer surgery, or medicines such as Immunotherapy. Follow-up after cancer treatment helps monitor the treated area and the rest of the skin.

Book prompt medical review for a changing or unusual pigmented lesion rather than waiting for it to settle. Seek urgent care if it is bleeding heavily, painful with rapidly worsening swelling, or associated with feeling acutely unwell. New severe headache, weakness, confusion, seizures, or vision change requires emergency assessment; these symptoms have many possible causes, but should not be ignored.

Ask whether the lesion needs a biopsy, what the pathology report shows, whether the edges were fully removed, and whether lymph-node assessment is appropriate. You can also ask how often your skin should be checked, how to examine your own skin, and which new symptoms should trigger an earlier appointment.