Thyroid and melanoma: what to know

The thyroid is a gland in the neck, while melanoma begins in pigment-producing cells, most often in the skin. A thyroid problem and a suspicious mole can therefore be separate issues. Melanoma can change in size, shape, colour, or surface, but harmless moles can also vary, so a clinician must assess the lesion rather than infer a diagnosis from a symptom.

Assessment may include a close skin examination and removal of all or part of a concerning lesion for laboratory review. If melanoma is confirmed, the team may discuss the depth and spread of disease, including whether a Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy is relevant.

Photograph a changing spot beside a simple scale and record when you first noticed the change, but do not rely on photographs to rule out cancer. Arrange a dermatology appointment for a mole that is new, evolving, bleeding, crusting, persistently itchy, or unlike your other marks.

Do not cut, burn, or repeatedly pick at a suspicious lesion. If melanoma is diagnosed, care may involve Surgical Excision or Skin Cancer Surgery; more advanced disease can lead to discussion of Immunotherapy and structured Follow-Up After Cancer Treatment.

Seek prompt assessment for a rapidly changing or bleeding pigmented lesion, a sore that does not heal, or a new firm lump near a known melanoma. New neurological symptoms in someone with diagnosed melanoma, such as persistent headache, weakness, confusion, or seizures, need urgent medical attention because spread can require specialist evaluation.

What features make this lesion concerning? Is a biopsy or Surgical Excision needed? If melanoma is confirmed, what does the pathology show? Do I need a Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy, imaging, or a follow-up plan?